Becker noted that the policy shift on child soldiers marks the first time the United States has ever agreed to change its practices in order to support a human rights standard. In other cases, such as the Landmine Ban Treaty, the US has either refused to ratify or has exempted itself from the law. But Becker believes it will force a change in US policy. Many are kidnapped or coerced into killing, raping and maiming, while others are lured by promise of booty or revenge. U.S.-made lightweight weaponry makes it possible for young boys to be armed, while the children's unpredictability is seen as making them better fighters.
Child soldiers are cheaper to feed, less demanding, and more easily manipulated.
Although the most egregious violators are unlikely to sign the U.N. agreement, the international standards are expected to help stigmatize the use of children in combat. The US isn't going to put pressure on other governments if it's not willing to abide by it as well. Before governments can begin to ratify the protocol, it must be adopted by the UN General Assembly, which Becker expects this summer, at the earliest. Supporters should contact the White House and Congress to encourage its ratification. At least one of the three suspects in the 1998 embassy bombings in East Africa is likely to face the death penalty, but an execution in this case could jeopardize US relations with Muslim countries and heighten tensions with Islamic fundamentalists.