New York, 12 June 2007 – On the occasion of the World Day Against Child Labour, the UN Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, Ms. Radhika Coomaraswamy would like to call attention to children who are recruited and used in armed conflict. The UN Special Representative reminds the world that the recruitment of children for use in armed conflict is considered one of the worst forms of child labour and, calls on the International Community to continue to take actions to stop this unconscionable practice."The International Community is very concerned about this issue. Over the years, we have developed a large number of legal instruments. One such instrument is the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 182 concerning the Prohibition and Immediate Action for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labour. Now we must ensure compliance with these standards", she said. It is estimated that 250.000 children are recruited and used in armed conflict today.

# # #For further in formation, please contact Laurence Gérard, Office of the Special Representative for Children & Armed Conflict. Office: +1212-963-0984 – gerardl@un.org – Website: www.un.org/children/conflict