Urgent Call to Action: Protecting the Rights of Yemeni Children

Urgent Call to Action: Protecting the Rights of Yemeni Children

In the wake of the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council and the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Outcome of Yemen, Defence for Children International (DCI) expresses profound concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the severe threats it poses to the rights of children in Yemen. The UPR process highlighted critical violations affecting the health, safety, and future of Yemeni children amidst the protracted conflict.

It is crucial that the government of Yemen acts decisively to address the alarming issues raised in the report, particularly those related to children’s rights.

Key Areas of Concern:

1. Child Recruitment in Armed Conflict: The recruitment and use of children by various parties to the conflict is a grave violation of international human rights law. DCI commends Yemen’s acceptance of the recommendations to end this practice and urges the government to take immediate action to demobilise, rehabilitate, and reintegrate affected children. Establishing robust legal frameworks and monitoring mechanisms, alongside providing psychological and social support, is essential.
2. Child Marriage: The prevalence of child marriage in Yemen, especially in conflict-affected areas, is a pressing concern. This practice undermines the rights of girls to health, education, and protection. DCI strongly supports recommendations for Yemen to enact and enforce legislation prohibiting marriage under the age of 18, in alignment with international standards. Comprehensive awareness campaigns and collaboration with civil society are necessary to shift cultural norms and safeguard the future of Yemeni girls.
3. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): FGM remains a violation of the rights of girls and women, endangering their physical and mental health. DCI calls on Yemen to implement the recommendations to ban FGM through national legislation, coupled with public education initiatives highlighting the harmful effects of this practice. Engaging community leaders and healthcare providers is crucial for protecting girls and ensuring accountability.
4. Education Crisis: The conflict has devastated Yemen’s education system, leaving millions of children without access to quality education. Many schools have been damaged or repurposed for military use, and teachers have gone unpaid for extended periods. The right to education is a fundamental human right, and DCI urges Yemen to implement recommendations aimed at protecting this right through the effective application of the Safe Schools Declaration. Urgent action is needed to rebuild schools, provide resources for teachers, and ensure safe, inclusive, and quality education for all Yemeni children.