BAMYAN – Raising awareness about the dangers to children in armed conflict, including from underage recruitment and mines, was the focus of a series of UN-backed theatre performances in central Bamyan.

The 30-minute open-air plays –with actors from the Rowzana Film Production Company -- took place in five Bamyan city schools during November, reaching thousands of students along with many parents. Each performance was followed by a discussion of the issues raised.

The play was also turned into a radio drama broadcast to an estimated 50,000 people in Bamyan province.

The play highlights the situation of a group school students who play near a ruined military check-post. One student spots an interesting object – in reality a mine – trying to see what it is by touching the object. His playmates shout at him not to touch a strange object, because it might be dangerous.

Mohammad Ali, a member of the audience and father of three, said “Remnants of war and unexploded ordinance have harmed many children in Bamyan and the play has helped to raise awareness about this important issue.”

Sardar, a 10^th grader, said “Many young students on their way to school have been harmed by unexploded ordinance left from the past. The theatre show was very useful and helps to understand the issues.”

The poor economic situation of some Bamyan families can lead to pressure for their children to join the armed forces before the legal age of 18, not only endangering their lives but impacting also their education.

While Bamyan is a comparatively secure province, unexploded ordnance and other remnants of war from previous conflict continue to affect local children.  

Children form a vulnerable group that needs to be protected by all parties to the conflict from harm and abuse. The need for such protection is clearly articulated in Islamic Sharia, international human rights and international humanitarian law.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides 'good offices' among other key services. 'Good offices' are diplomatic steps UN takes publicly and in private, drawing on its independence, impartiality and integrity, to prevent international disputes from arising, escalating or spreading.

UNAMA also promotes coherent development support by the international community; assists the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.