The UN security council’s “name and shame” mechanism and the protection of girl children in armed conflict. Reforming the accountability framework through the nexus of the women, peace and security and the children and armed conflict agendas

Armed conflicts have far-reaching and devastating consequences for individuals, with girl children particularly vulnerable to a range of threats, stemming from systemic inequalities that expose girls to greater risk of targeted violence, especially sexual violence, which is frequently employed as a weapon of persecution and intimidation in wartime settings. The protection of girl children amid such dire circumstances has emerged as a pressing priority within the United Nations (UN) framework. The Annual Report of the UN Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict has sounded the alarm on these issues, reporting that 2024 witnessed a troubling peak in grave violations against children in conflict zones. In this context, the research critically examines the international institutional mechanisms and reporting processes established by the UN Security Council, assessing their efficacy in protecting human rights during armed conflicts. It explores the existing frameworks, identifies significant gaps, and draws connections with other vital initiatives, notably the Women, Peace and Security Agenda, which underscores the need for an integrated approach to gender and conflict. By analysing these intersections, the research seeks to propose actionable strategies to enhance the safety and rights of girl children caught in the crossfire of conflict. The study focuses not only on identifying the specific challenges faced by vulnerable populations, but also on the necessity of sustained advocacy and legal reform. It aims to deepen the pivotal need for accountability regarding gross f human rights violations, while emphasising the importance of rehabilitation and resilience-building among survivors of violence. Ultimately, the research calls for a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the well-being of girl children in situations of conflict, advocating for systemic changes that ensure their protection and empowerment.