Children as Vulnerable Persons in Armed Conflicts: A Legal Analysis of the Anglophone Conflict in Cameroon

Abstract

Armed conflicts have a disproportionate impact on civilian populations, with children being among the most vulnerable. Their physical immaturity, dependence on adults, and limited capacity for self-protection expose them to heightened risks of violence, exploitation, displacement and deprivation of their fundamental rights. This study examines the legal status of children as vulnerable persons in armed conflict, with specific focus on the Anglophone conflict in Cameroon. It adopts a qualitative research methodology and employs the doctrinal method, relying on content analysis of both primary and secondary sources of data. The study is underpinned by Martha Fineman’s Vulnerability theory and the Human Rights-Based Approach, which emphasise the responsibility of the State to provide enhanced protection for inherently vulnerable groups. The study finds that the Anglophone conflict has significantly intensified violations of children’s rights to health, education and overall development, while also exposing them to various forms of exploitation. Although international human rights law and international humanitarian law provide a comprehensive legal framework for the protection of children in armed conflicts, their effectiveness is undermined by weak enforcement, insecurity and socio-economic challenges. The study concludes that protecting children in armed conflicts must remain a central legal and policy priority. It therefore recommends the implementation of stronger enforcement mechanisms, targeted training programs and effective reintegration and psychosocial support systems.