XIX ISA World Congress of Sociology (July 15-21, 2018)

958

Children at Risk in the Late 20th and 21st Century

TG03 Human Rights and Global Justice (host committee)

Language: English

Children belong to one of the most vulnerable groups in societies. This was the case even before the current humanitarian crises around the world which led millions of people and families to flee from wars, terror, poverty and exploitation. Children have been misused as child soldiers, being exposed to human trafficking, slavery, sexual abuse and exploitation. They have been denied basic human rights such as access to education, food and health services. They have been kidnapped, sold, manipulated, mutilated, killed, injured – not seldom by closest family members who should provide stability, security and affection. This occurred and still occurs both in developed and in developing countries and it does not seem as if the situation will improve in near future – rather the present geo-political developments, political and economic uncertainties and instabilities seem to increase this vulnerability of children as the focus of the political agenda is devoted to other “more important” issues. The aim of this session is to address risks children in the late 20^th and 21^st century are exposed to. Papers are welcome that address any group of children in war and post-war societies, for example, children born of war, refugee children, child soldiers, war children, trafficked children, and enslaved children. They can be based on quantitative and/or qualitative analyses and papers are expected to address how clear responses and responsibilities may reduce the vulnerability of the particular group. Papers that can present positive cases that may serve as best practices are particularly welcome.