A Decade of Armed Conflict and Vulnerability of Children in Nepal: In Search of the Ray of Solution

Abstract

During the ten years of armed conflict in Nepal, not only were school-age children slain and displaced, but they were also utilized as needed by both sides (CPN—Maoist and the State security force). Whatever the ten-year armed conflict has meant for school children, they had had several effects. Children faced several difficulties due to the State not abiding by the norms, not only during the armed struggle but even after the peace deal. They could not meet their fundamental requirements for food, shelter, and education. That indicates that their situation is dire. The slogans of child conventions and other laws protecting children appeared constrained. Following the peace deal, the afflicted received some assistance from the Government and other aid agencies. Children who experienced ten years of armed conflict were given help, but they did not feel it was enough for them to live sustainably. They were dealing with issues on the social, mental, and economic indicators. They were also rejected by society and were ostracized to some extent. This study concluded that to help children impacted by conflict, a victim-centered, tailored strategy is urgently needed rather than a one-door solution. These contextual strategies directly address the requirements of the local community. This enables the victims’ demands for a sustainable future to be connected to their careers.