The convention entitles those who have not attained 18 years to special protection. State parties admitting those under the age of 18 into their national armed forces under voluntary recruitment must ensure that such recruitments are genuinely voluntary. Informed consent of the parents of such recruits has to be sought. Recruits have to be fully informed of their engagements in such military service. The protocol forbids armed groups that are not armed forces of states from enlisting those under the age of 18 years into their ranks as to take part in armed conflicts. State parties are called upon to ensure that legal measures are taken against armed groups that recruit individuals below the age of 18. State parties must ensure that the principles and provisions of this protocol are known and promoted. Other than the optional protocol there exists international humanitarian law that safeguards the rights of a child. References List

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