Machel Study 10-Year Strategic Review - Children and Conflict in a Changing World

The impact on children is more brutal than ever. The decade since the original Machel study has seen increased attention to mitigating the direct consequences of conflict, such as unlawful recruitment, gender- based violence, killing and maiming, separation from families, trafficking and illegal detention. But the indirect consequences of war – the severing of basic services, and increased poverty, malnutrition and disease – take a similarly devastating toll on children.
In light of these circumstances, the initial findings of this strategic review, presented to the General Assembly in October 2007, included among its recommendations expanded action in four key areas: securing universal compliance with international norms and standards, with ending impunity the top priority; prioritizing the protection and care of children in armed conflict; strengthening capacity and leadership; and building peace while preventing conflict. These recommendations are outlined in full in chapter 11. And because the focus of this report is on action, the majority of chapters conclude with specific follow-up recommendations.