A Framework for the Protection of Children

Almost half of all forcibly displaced persons globally are children – over 12 million girls and boys. Many refugee children spend their entire childhood in displacement, uncertain about their future. Children – whether refugees, internally displaced or stateless – are at greater risk than adults of abuse, neglect, violence, exploitation, trafficking or forced recruitment into armed groups. They may experience and witness disturbing events or be separated from their family. At the same time, family and other social support networks may be weakened and education may be disrupted. These experiences can have a profound effect on children – from infancy and childhood through to adolescence. During emergencies and in displacement, girls face particular gender-related protection risks.