February 12

Red Hand Day

Stand against the use of child soldiers and join in on Red Hand Day to raise awareness and take action for a better future.

Yearly Date

February 12

Observed in

United States

Introduction

On February 12, we honor and remember the millions of children around the world who have been forced to become child soldiers on Red Hand Day. This day was first established in 2002 by the Coalition to Stop the Use of Child Soldiers, as a way to raise awareness and advocate for an end to this practice. It's a powerful reminder that even in today's modern world, there are still many issues that need our attention and action. So let's join together in spreading awareness and standing up against the use of child soldiers – because every child deserves their childhood.

Red Hand Day Timeline

1989

UN Convention on Child Rights

The United Nations adopts the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Article 38 of the Convention condemns the use of children in armed conflicts.

2000

Optional Protocol adopted

The UN General Assembly adopts the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict.

2002

Protocol Enters into Force

The Optional Protocol comes into force on Feb 12, providing a stronger and legally binding commitment to ban the recruitment of children into conflict.

2002

First Red Hand Day

First observed Red Hand Day to draw global attention to end the use of child soldiers in conflicts around the world.

2009

Red Hand Day Petition

A global petition on Red Hand Day amasses 250,000 red handprints to deliver to the UN, symbolising a demand for action against the use of child soldiers.

How to Celebrate Red Hand Day

1 Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to share information about Red Hand Day and the importance of ending the use of child soldiers. You can use hashtags such as #RedHandDay and #EndChildSoldiers to reach a wider audience.

2 Organize a fundraiser

Get your community involved by organizing a fundraiser for organizations that work to end the use of child soldiers. This can be a bake sale, charity concert, or any other creative idea you come up with.

3 Write to government officials

Take action by writing letters or emails to your local representatives and government officials, urging them to take action against the use of child soldiers and support policies that protect children in conflict zones.

4 Host a film screening

Educate others about the issue of child soldiers by hosting a screening of a documentary or film that focuses on the topic. This can spark important discussions and raise awareness among your friends and family.

5 Organize a peaceful protest

Gather a group of people and organize a peaceful protest to bring attention to the use of child soldiers. This can be done in front of government buildings or other public areas to make a statement and demand action.

Why Red Hand Day is Important

It raises awareness of child soldiers

Red Hand Day is an important reminder that there are still many children around the world who are recruited and used as soldiers. It sheds light on a crucial issue that needs to be addressed - and encourages us all to take action.

It advocates for the protection of children in conflicts

Not only does Red Hand Day bring attention to the use of child soldiers, it also calls for stronger efforts to protect these young individuals in conflict zones. This includes working towards their release and rehabilitation, as well as preventing them from being recruited in the first place.

It empowers youth to make a difference

By recognizing Red Hand Day and participating in related activities, young people can play a powerful role in advocating for the rights and protection of others their age. It's a chance to show solidarity with child soldiers and contribute to meaningful change in the world.