The Geneva Academy, a Swiss expert institution specializing in international human rights law and international humanitarian law, has published a policy paper written by our representative Yosuke Nagai, titled “Youth Associated with Non-State Armed Groups.” The summary is available on the Geneva Academy’s official site, and the full paper (in English) is also published there.

The paper is based on interviews with about 120 young people who have been involved with armed groups in countries including Somalia, Yemen, South Sudan, and Colombia. It explains their vulnerabilities and specific needs.

It argues that although young people who are or have been involved with armed groups (so-called violent extremist organizations, etc.) are vulnerable, and are important actors in building peace, there is no international framework to protect them—unlike children under 18. The paper calls for a re-examination of the complex issues they face and the importance of seeing them as peace-builders.

In 2021, we published the “Declaration of the Rights of Young People Involved in Terrorism or Armed Conflict.” That declaration aims precisely to empower them and protect them under international norms. As of 2023, alongside our field activities, we are working in parallel to establish these issues as international norms; writing this policy paper is one part of that.

We will continue to work toward realizing a world without terrorism and armed conflict through a comprehensive approach. We appreciate your warm support going forward.

Please find the publication here.