Children are ordered to kill other children who try to escape. I would like to give you a message. Please do your best to tell the world what is happening to us, the children. 1999 will be crucial for work to stop the use of child soldiers, as international momentum gathers to strengthen international legislation on this issue. 11 January 1999 sees the next meeting of the UN Working Group, when it is likely any decision on the text will be deferred to allow for a further year of intensive effort to gain common agreement for the age of recruitment to be set at 18.
Children have the right to grow up without being ordered to carry weapons or kill other people.
AI calls on all governments to support this move to keep children out of armed conflict. Further articles in this series on children's rights will highlight other themes, including street children and children in detention. The Children's Human Rights Network is open to adult members of Amnesty International who take part in campaigning actions in support of children's rights.