October 02, 2024

Stop the War on Children: How South Africa Can Champion the Cause for Abducted Children in Ukraine and Africa

South Africa has a unique opportunity to assert its moral leadership on the global stage by addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by the abduction of Ukrainian children during the Russo-Ukraine conflict. In doing so, it can also shine a light on the similar plight of abducted children across Africa, often overlooked by the international community.

The abduction of tens of thousands of Ukrainian children by Russian forces has been documented in the white paper titled "Safeguarding Children from Forced Transfers and Deportation," presented by the Bring Kids Back UA Task Force. This paper outlines the devastating reality of these war crimes and urges international action.

For South Africa, this crisis presents a chance to reaffirm its moral authority and stand up for children's rights on a global level. The country's history, shaped by its peaceful transition from apartheid and the moral legacy of Nelson Mandela, makes it well-positioned to lead the charge.

However, this advocacy could extend beyond Ukraine. African children, particularly those in Northern Nigeria, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), face similar horrors, with many being abducted and forced into service as child soldiers. The ongoing tragedy in Sudan and other conflict-ridden regions of Africa needs equal attention.

South Africa has shown its commitment to humanitarian causes, as seen in its recent actions at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where it argued that Israel's actions in Gaza were genocidal. South Africa's victory at the ICJ serves as a reminder of the country's powerful voice in international law.

With arrest warrants issued by the ICJ for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova for their involvement in the Ukrainian abductions, South Africa can use its influence to push for accountability and the safe return of these children.

Beyond Ukraine, the issue of child abductions in Africa remains critical. Children in countries like Somalia, Mozambique, and Yemen endure forced recruitment into armed groups and other atrocities. For instance, over 10,000 children were abducted in Somalia alone over the last decade, accounting for 42% of all global child abductions in conflict zones during that time.

South Africa is party to key treaties such as the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Both conventions focus on the protection of displaced children and those affected by armed conflict, a commitment that applies equally to Ukraine and Africa.

As a leading member of BRICS and a key figure in the non-aligned movement, South Africa has the diplomatic power to push for action. In June 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa and other African leaders raised the issue directly with Putin during the African peace initiative. This initial step must be followed up with continued pressure and global advocacy.

South Africa has the potential to lead the world in calling for the return of Ukraine's abducted children while also drawing attention to the similar plight of children in Africa. Whether in Ukraine, Uganda, DRC, or South Sudan, the right to a safe childhood must be defended.

Dr. Elvis Fokala, Associate Professor and Head of the Children's Rights Unit at the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, argues that this is an issue deeply tied to South Africa's identity and international commitments. By standing up for abducted children, South Africa can reaffirm its place as a global leader in the protection of human rights.