Implementation of the Vancouver Principles on Peacekeeping and the Prevention of the Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers

This report focused on the implementation of the Vancouver Principles through the military doctrine, policies, and practice of five specific countries: Bangladesh, Rwanda, Ghana, Spain, and Tunisia. The Vancouver Principles, non-legally binding standards for prevention of the recruitment and use of child soldiers specifically in regards to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, were established by Canada in 2017. To begin, the report provided a brief history of the Vancouver Principles, as well as the United Nations Children and Armed Conflict mandate that the principles operate through. Methodology of this report came in two forms: a comprehensive literature review and interviews with representatives from the five specific countries listed above. Questions answered within this report covered to what extent and how each country has or has not implemented and adhered to these principles within their military doctrines as well as why each country decided to sign onto these principles. This report also analyzed the impact of these principles and their effectiveness. Finally, recommendations for the future of these principles were provided.