“The Optional Protocol on the involvement of children in armed conflict establishes 18 as the minimum age for compulsory recruitment and requires States to do everything they can to prevent individuals under the age of 18 from taking a direct part in hostilities. The Optional Protocol on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography draws special attention to the criminalization of these serious violations of children’s rights and emphasizes the importance of fostering increased public awareness and international cooperation in efforts to combat them. The Optional Protocols must always be interpreted in light of the original treaty as a whole, in this case guided by the principles of non-discrimination, best interests of the child and child participation.” – Publisher’s description
