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Governments, Rebels, and the Use of Child Soldiers in Internal Armed Conflicts: A Global Analysis, 1987–2007

Author

Listed:
  • Tynes Robert

    (Africana Studies Program and Bard Prison Initiative, PO Box 5000, Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, NY 12504, USA)

  • Early Bryan R.

    (Department of Political Science, University at Albany, SUNY, Milne Hall, Room 300A, 135 Western Ave., Albany, NY 12222, USA)

Abstract

Why do governments and rebel groups employ child soldiers in some internal armed conflicts but not in others? This study argues that child soldiers can be viewed as a military innovation that governments and rebel groups have differing costs and incentives in employing. It is hypothesized that longer, bloodier conflicts, disputant capacities, and the presence of democratic institutions significantly influence whether child soldiers are used by one or both parties during internal armed conflicts. The effects of these factors are statistically analyzed, uncovering new insights into global patterns of child soldier usage by governments and rebel groups.

Suggested Citation

  • Tynes Robert & Early Bryan R., 2015. "Governments, Rebels, and the Use of Child Soldiers in Internal Armed Conflicts: A Global Analysis, 1987–2007," Peace Economics, Peace Science, and Public Policy, De Gruyter, vol. 21(1), pages 79-110, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:pepspp:v:21:y:2015:i:1:p:79-110:n:1
    DOI: 10.1515/peps-2014-0001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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