About International Red Hand Day

DESCRIPTION:

International Red Hand Day, observed annually on February 12, is a significant global event to raise awareness about child soldiers' plight. This day advocates against the recruitment and use of children in armed conflicts and supports the reintegration of former child soldiers into society.

The origin of International Red Hand Day stems from growing international concerns over the widespread use of children as soldiers in various conflicts around the world. The use of child soldiers is a grave violation of human rights, and the international community recognized the need for a concerted effort to address this issue.

The Red Hand Campaign, symbolized by a red handprint, serves as a powerful global emblem against the use of child soldiers. The red handprint represents a "stop" sign and a personal expression of opposition to this practice.

February 12 was chosen as International Red Hand Day to coincide with the anniversary of the signing of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, which entered into force on February 12, 2002.

The purpose of International Red Hand Day is multifaceted:

Raising the Profile—to increase global awareness of the recruitment and use of children in armed conflicts. It highlights this practice's devastating impact on the lives of children, their families, and communities.

Advocacy for Change—a call to action for governments, international organizations, and civil society to end the use of child soldiers. It advocates for enforcing international laws and norms that prohibit this practice.

Support for Affected Children—emphasize the need for rehabilitation and reintegration programs for former child soldiers. These programs are crucial in helping these children return to civilian life and overcome the physical, psychological, and social scars of their involvement in armed conflict.

Global Solidarity and Mobilization—engaging people worldwide, including youth, activists, and policymakers, the day fosters a sense of global solidarity and mobilization against the use of child soldiers.

Activities often include the collection of red handprints and organizing events to draw public attention to the issue.

International Red Hand Day has become a key platform for drawing attention to the ongoing tragedy of child soldiering. It serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect children from being used in warfare and to work towards a world where children grow up with their rights and dignity intact.