State obligation towards children in a conflict situation: The case of Ethiopia

Abstract

The article examines the obligations of Ethiopia to protect children in conflict situations and the accountability framework against nonstate actors in the context of armed conflict. It presents arguments on the various legislative, administrative and judicial measures the Government of Ethiopia is required to put in place to mitigate the impact of a conflict on children’s rights. The article also explores the importance of a comprehensive, appropriate and inclusive accountability mechanism to address deliberate harm or failure to protect children and navigates the kinds of supports and services that should be availed for children affected by conflicts. The authors recognise that the intensity, scope and impact of the violence inflicted on children in conflict situations could fall under various governing laws, such as international humanitarian and criminal laws. However, it would be important to note that the arguments in the article are informed by a child rights-based approach to protecting children in conflict situations.