ID with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict

Agenda Item: 67 Promotion and protection of human rights

5 October 2023

Mr. Chair,

We thank Madam Gamba for her report and briefing.

the ongoing disproportionate impact of armed conflict on children is concerning. Iran ꞌs legal system is based on the prohibition of the employment and entry of children into the armed forces and their participation in armed conflict.

The report highlights that the denial of humanitarian access in occupied Palestine territories and Afghanistan remained very high.

Iran, as a neighboring country and host to millions of Afghan people has provided basic services like education and healthcare to Afghan children living in Iran.

Madam SRSG, it`s imperative to address the root causes of conflicts. Tackling such issues is crucial in mitigating relevant grave violations against children.

Could the SRSG explain more in detail about the UCMs and economic blockades which can exacerbate the plight of children in conflict-affected areas?

I thank you.