Children as a zone of peace: a framework for promoting child health and welfare in developing countries

Children as a Zone of Peace (CZOP) is a strategy that aims to provide humanitarian aid during conflict by prioritising the rights of children. This desk review considers CZOP implementation in countries across five regions of the world. The strategy is found to have achieved results both in terms of stated objectives, such as immunisation coverage and disease control, and other benefits, such as a break from violence and a sense of national purpose. Implementation challenges relate to the political and logistical realities of conflict. Five elements are identified for successful execution of CZOP: (1) an initial proposal from a respected third party; (2) high level negotiations; (3) resourceful planning; (4) targeted communication; and (5) broad partnerships among diverse stakeholders. The CZOP is found to have proven value as a basis for negotiation and humanitarian intervention. Further potential is suggested, both in conflict settings and non-conflict environments, where children's rights are not being met.