Mass abductions of children became increasingly prevalent in many of the 23 conflict situations around the world in 2014, according to the Annual Report of the Secretary-General on children and armed conflict.

The report details how extreme violence rose dramatically throughout the year, accompanied by a large increase in the number of grave violations against children.

This has been attributed to the targeting of schools by extremist groups, such as ISIL in the Middle East and Boko Haram in Nigeria.

Military responses by states to extreme violence have also reportedly resulted in more grave violations against children.

Cristina Silveiro met with Leila Zerrougui, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict.

She began by asking her where it is most difficult to be a child today.

Duration: 6’33”