UNITED NATIONS - Pakistan has called for international help for strengthening national government’s capacity to deal with terrorist groups, as also to protect seats of education and learning targeted by the militants.
In a speech at the United Nations, Ambassador Masood Khan also reiterated his government's call for the cessation of American drone strikes, saying they infringe the rights of children to life, education and development.
"Attacks on schools endanger students and teachers, destroy the premises and deprive children of their right to education," the Pakistani envoy said while participating in a debate on Children and Armed Conflict. "Such attacks are perpetrated by terrorists and other armed groups who do not respect national laws and international norms."
Around the world, thousands of boys and girls are recruited into government forces and armed opposition groups to serve as combatants, cooks, porters, messengers or in other roles, according to the UN. Girls – and sometimes boys – are also recruited for sexual purposes.
"The international community should strengthen the hands of national governments to deal with (terrorist) groups and to protect seats of education and learning," Masood Khan said.
In any case, he said, military use of schools should be strictly prohibited. UN peace-keeping missions could play a vital role in the protection of children in situations of armed conflict.
The Pakistani envoy said that children need to be protected and nurtured through better education, proper nourishment and moral guidance. Education was an enabler, an emancipator and by far the most effective answer to armed conflicts, he said.