On Monday, the UN Security Council adopted resolution 2832 (2026) to support children in armed conflict and called on its members to take necessary measures to protect children from legal violations arising from digital technologies.
Emphasis on the necessity of using digital technologies
The proposed resolution by Greece points out that digital technologies can contribute to violations of children's rights; however, the importance of using these technologies to prevent such violations and enhance the protection of children by ensuring their privacy and data protection is also emphasized. This resolution strongly condemns the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, as well as their killing, injuring, abduction, and abuse, and calls on the parties involved to immediately cease these actions.
Commitment to integrating digital protection measures
The Security Council urged member states to integrate digital protection measures into their national child protection systems and to provide secure channels for reporting violations and access mechanisms for victims and survivors. The Council emphasized that appropriate support must be provided to prevent the recurrence of violations. Additionally, the Council called on member states to take actions in accordance with international law to combat the recruitment and exploitation of children through the digital environment and to address the use of technology to facilitate abduction and sexual violence, especially against girls who are at greater risk.
The resolution also calls on member states, UN agencies, and international partners to promote distance learning and digital literacy in conflict-affected areas and to expand children's access to technology and digital skills. This is particularly important for areas with weak connectivity and limited resources. Supporting children affected by conflict, including those who have previously been associated with armed forces or groups, in acquiring digital skills and empowering them to cope with online risks as part of the reintegration process is emphasized.
The Security Council has requested the UN Secretary-General to gather information and lessons learned about the benefits and risks of these technologies and, in coordination with security agencies, to emphasize the need to combat impunity, strengthen national accountability mechanisms, and build the necessary capacity for investigating and prosecuting those responsible for violations against children. The Council also calls for support for national and regional research on the benefits and risks of digital tools and platforms for children, including their impact on children's mental health and well-being. Stronger collaborations between governments and the private sector are needed to establish protective measures against exploitation and abuse.
