Enhancing the EU response to children and armed conflict

Unlike many issues on the European Union’s (EU) agenda, children affected by armed conflict (CAAC) is one in which member-states and European institutions agree much needs to be done, and done better. Any child under 18 years of age is particularly vulnerable to the impact of conflict and children represent the future of any country. The issue of children affected by armed conflict is one of the priorities outlined in the 18 month troika programme ‘Strengthening the European Union’s Role as a Global Partner for Development’ as jointly agreed by the three Presidencies of Germany, Portugal and Slovenia. The European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM) was commissioned by the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to undertake this study on children affected by armed conflict and the European Union’s response. In particular the study was interested in how to enhance the development cooperation dimension of the issue and to add possible development linkages to the European Union’s approach.