LEGAL PROTECTION OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED CHILDREN IN AFRICA: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

Internal displacement is a global phenomenon and a critical human right as well as
humanitarian issue. There is virtually no country in the world that has not experienced internal
displacement of its citizens either as a result of natural or man-made disasters. While all
classes of human beings are affectable, children are the worst hit by internal displacement and
its attendant negative impacts. Statistics shows that Africa has produced the highest number of
internally displaced children in the world and these children have received the least attention
required to address their plight. This article, examined the protection measures adopted by
African states for the internally displaced child2 using Nigeria, Kenya and Sudan as case
studies. The doctrinal method of research was adopted based on primary and secondary
sources. The article found and concluded that, not much progress has been recorded in the
protection of internally displaced children in Africa and this is attributable not just to the
absence of adequate laws for their protection but lack of implementation of the available laws.
It is recommended inter alia that the internally displaced child should not only be regarded as
one in need of humanitarian assistance but one entitled to enforceable rights.