Geneva, 9 March 2026
Mr. President, Distinguished Panelists,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.
As armed conflicts escalate worldwide, the need for robust action to protect children in armed conflicts and ensure their most fundamental human rights, such as the right to life, education, and health, has never been more urgent. We must act and be resolute to change the situation of children in armed conflicts now.
Preventing violations of children’s rights and protecting children in conflict is not simply a moral or political choice; it is a matter of international law. While most States have ratified relevant legal instruments, their effective implementation remains crucial. We therefore urge States to honor their obligations under international law and to renew the global commitment to protecting children in armed conflicts.
Children should have a say in matters that affect them. States’ support for child rights-based mechanisms and comprehensive strategies, which enable children to play a meaningful role in shaping safe, inclusive and age-appropriate legal and institutional frameworks in the best interests of children, remains vital. We must work together to help children in armed conflicts to regain control over their lives.
I thank you.