Which group is particularly vulnerable during armed conflict, comprising a significant portion of the civilian population?

Children are recognized as particularly vulnerable during armed conflict due to their inherent dependence on adults for protection, care, and support. They represent a significant portion of the civilian population and experience unique risks in conflict situations. These risks include direct threats to their safety, such as recruitment into armed groups, exposure to violence, and disruptions to their education and healthcare.

Moreover, children are often affected by the broader consequences of conflict, such as displacement and lack of access to basic needs like food and clean water. Their physical, emotional, and psychological development can be profoundly impacted, leading to long-term effects that extend far beyond the duration of the conflict itself. Therefore, their vulnerability and significant presence among civilians make them a primary focus for protection efforts in armed conflicts.

While the elderly, women, and individuals with disabilities also face considerable risks during conflicts, children are distinct in their universal reliance on adult caregivers and their wide-ranging implications for the future of society.