UNICEF: More than 200 child soldiers demobilized in Burundi

BUJUMBURA, Burundi, 6 May 2008 -- Over 200 demobilized child soldiers were recently released to officials from UNICEF, the United Nations, the African Union and the Government of Burundi. The children were being held by dissidents from the rebel group Palipehutu-FNL, and negotiations for the children's release became urgent after fighting intensified.

UNICEF Acting Representative in Burundi Françoise Gruloos described how she heard the children jumping and laughing in the buses that were removing them from the camp.

Ms. Gruloos said it was "a wonderful moment, a wonderful feeling, giving back to the children their right to a childhood."

To read the full story, visit: http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/burundi_43844.html

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Nonprofits & Activism

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• UNICEF
• Burundi
• child
• soldiers
• protection
• children
• Africa

[ngruloos]

Françoise is my Mum...I am so proud of her!

Kiss,

Fanny