Diplomats to convene for crafting international treaty on crimes against humanity to enhance child protection

Diplomats from around the world are set to meet at the United Nations in New York from January 19 to 30 to continue drafting a proposed international treaty on crimes against humanity, amid calls to more clearly address crimes committed against children, Human Rights Watch reported.

Crimes against humanity, including murder, rape, torture, and enslavement, are often carried out through widespread or systematic attacks on civilian populations and can have long-term physical and psychological impacts on children. Unlike war crimes and genocide, crimes against humanity are not currently governed by a dedicated international treaty requiring states to prosecute or extradite perpetrators.

According to child rights advocates, the current draft treaty makes limited reference to children, mentioning them only in the preamble and in the definition of enslavement. It does not explicitly address crimes that disproportionately affect children, such as age-based persecution, recruitment of child soldiers, or harms such as children born of rape.

Thirty-eight organizations and child rights experts have proposed revisions to ensure children are explicitly recognized in crime definitions, victim participation provisions, and procedures concerning accused persons. Supporters argue that clearer language would help address gaps in international justice mechanisms that have historically overlooked child victims.