When is Red Hand Day?
Sunday February 12thEvery year, Red Hand Day calls on political figures to avoid the use of child soldiers. This day is also known as the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers.
Sadly, many countries around the world encourage the use of children in violent conflicts. In at least 20 countries, over 250,000 child soldiers around the world are deployed in at least 20 countries. Afghanistan, Colombia, Iraq, the Philippines, Sudan, and Yemen are among the countries where this activity is particularly prevalent. The majority of child soldiers are between the ages of 15 and 18 years old. However, some countries recruit children as young as 9 years old.
In addition to being exposed to life-threatening injuries, child soldiers also suffer from a lack of adequate nutrition, shelter, and health care. In addition,, abusive techniques are used on these children to discipline them. As a result, some of these child soldiers die or become permanently disabled. Soldiers who survive are traumatized for life.
No child is safe from becoming a soldier in certain countries. Girls are even encouraged to become soldiers by the government. These girls also face the possibility of forced marriage and sexual assault. If these children are able to return home, their lives may also be difficult. Orphanages are often returned to orphanages. Some people are unable to attend school or work a career.
#redhandday is a hashtag that people use to track #redhandday
