Infância roubada: criança-soldado e o tráfico infantil da República Democrática do Congo (1996-2024)

Abstract

The aim of this article is to investigate the recruitment of child soldiers and child trafficking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) between 1996 and 2024. It questions why, despite international efforts, the use of child soldiers and child trafficking remain persistent in the country. Our hypothesis is that the strategies undertaken by the international community to combat the use of child soldiers and child trafficking are insufficient and disconnected from the Congolese socioeconomic reality, thereby undermining the effectiveness of interventions. Furthermore, the absence of a consolidated rule of law prevents those involved from being held accountable. The study also highlights the urgency of policies that strengthen national institutions, promote the involvement of affected communities, and ensure the effective reintegration of rescued children. We adopt a qualitative methodology based on a literature review focused on the analysis of historical documents, international reports, and specialized literature. However, it is considered that the persistence of armed conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been a determining factor in the ongoing recruitment of child soldiers and child trafficking.