Rights Protection of Conflict-Induced Displaced Children in the Street Situation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-05
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This research has examined the rights protection of conflict-induced displaced children in the street situation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The research employed a descriptive research design and critical discourse analysis in examining and interpreting the lived experiences of children in the current social and political contexts considering the peculiar characteristics of the children. Participants for primary data collection were 45 children aged 10-to-18 (Mean age was 15.2) and 18 adults (Mean age 36.4) drawn from children’s parents, government agencies, CSOs, and human rights organizations selected using purposive and convenient sampling. Secondary data were obtained by reviewing existing human rights frameworks, legislations, policies, and programs. The findings of the study revealed that displacement remains an alarming risk factor of vulnerability for children. Conflict-induced displaced children on the street are facing more complicated circumstances. States commit to defend the protection of the rights of internally displaced children to the same extent as all citizens. Notwithstanding, the rights of conflict-induced displaced children on the streets are deprioritized, as they are denied access to school, protection, health, and participation rights. These children have unique characteristics that set them apart from the other vulnerable children on the street. Conflict-induced displaced children have been traumatized by the conflict and instability situation. Their lived experiences demonstrate that they suffered greatly on their journey to safer places for their lives. These children are becoming an emerging group of vulnerable children in an urban context. State and non-state actors need to recognize their unique features and circumstances, which necessitates a new operational approach to protecting their rights. This has ramifications for existing social policies and systems, which need to consider such an emergent societal challenge to guarantee that conflict-displaced children are not left behind. There is a need to advocate for more effective policies and systems of governance, including a specific locus of responsibility for internally displaced children in the United Nations, international organizations, and government agencies.
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Keywords
Child rights, conflict-induced displacement, children in street situations, child protection