Our new report One Step Forward: The case for ending recruitment of minors by the British armed forces shows that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) wastes up to £94m of taxpayer’s money every year training under-18s for army roles which could be better filled by adult recruits.
But the problem is not only financial – the human and moral costs are high. Statistical data from military sources and academic/clinical research show that the youngest and most disadvantaged recruits are at greater risk of bullying, harassment and sexual abuse while in the armed forces. The risks of clinically significant mental health problems including alcohol/substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder and self-harming are also higher for those recruited below the age of 18.
Those in favour of current policy argue that the army offers great opportunities for education and career training. In fact the training and qualifications on offer fall short of recommended minimum education standards in the UK – so it is extra hard for young recruits to get jobs once they leave the army.
The UK is one of a handful of countries in the world who continue to recruit 16 year olds. No European Union nation does so. Nor do any of the major military powers (such as China, Russia and the USA). This is not a campaign against the British Army. It is a campaign to end a practice from a bygone era for which our young people are paying the price.
Join us in our campaign to end the recruitment of minors in the UK by making a donation, however small. Please click here to support our work: http://www.child-soldiers.org/get_involved.php
Now is a critical time to build momentum as the Army 2020 restructuring process gets under way. Your donation will help us to widen the expanding circle of military experts, MPs, policymakers and members of the public who support our campaign to end this outdated and harmful practice.