The year 2024 is one of the biggest election years in history, with over 50 countries holding elections to choose their leaders. These leaders, both new and old, will be stepping into office at a tumultuous time in history, with conflicts raging in countries like Ukraine, Sudan, and the Middle East. It is crucial for these leaders to uphold international laws and protect civilians, especially children, from the devastating consequences of war. Despite the world agreeing to rules to prevent the devastation of World War II, the world is still a dangerous place for children, with conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo causing immense suffering and death for children.
The daily death rate in Gaza is higher than in any other conflict of the 21st century, with tens of thousands of children being killed by Israel in clear violation of international laws. In Ukraine, Russia continues to strike schools and children’s hospitals, causing further suffering. In Sudan, 24 million children are exposed to brutality and rights violations, while in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 2.8 million children have been forced to flee their homes due to violence. The climate crisis is also exacerbating conflicts and migration, with children being on the frontline of these challenges. Leaders must act to address these issues and prevent a global climate catastrophe to protect the most vulnerable generation of children in history.
The norms and institutions that guide our moral compass are being challenged, but there are still glimpses of common morals that guide our actions. The wars in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have been met with revulsion globally, while the inaction and complicity of powerful governments in addressing climate change have generated public outrage. Newly elected leaders, as well as those who retain power, must heed this outrage and work together to ensure that human rights treaties and international humanitarian laws are respected. The public and civil society will hold these leaders accountable and demand that they uphold the rules that preserve our collective humanity.
It is crucial for leaders to support civil society organizations in defending the international rules-based system and avoid undermining these institutions by demonizing human rights organizations or dismissing calls to respect international humanitarian law. Action is needed now, led by the rules that protect our collective humanity, to ensure that children facing nightmares now and in the future are protected from the devastating consequences of war and climate change. It is time for leaders to act decisively to protect children and uphold international laws to create a safer world for future generations. Rob Williams, CEO of War Child, emphasizes the importance of these actions in ensuring a better future for children around the world.
