CNF vows to protect children and combat sexual violence

20 March 2014: The Chin National Front (CNF), together with its armed wing the Chin National Army (CNA), signed Geneva Call’s documents in Geneva, Switzerland yesterday, committing to the ‘highest international norms in terms of child protection and prohibition of sexual violence’.

In inking two Deeds of Commitment, the CNF formally agrees not to recruit or use children under the age of 18 in hostilities and puts every effort into protecting them from the effects of conflict.

According to a statement released by Geneva Call, the CNF also reaffirms its determination to strictly prohibit all forms of sexual violence in a region where cases of sexual violence have often been reported.

Paul Sitha, CNF Secretary-I, said: “Our signing of these two Deeds of Commitment clearly indicates the priority that we give to seeking to reduce the risk of harm to those who are not involved in the conflict. As with anti-personnel mines, we will actively take steps to ensure that the terms of the two new instruments are complied with.”

Geneva Call, a non-governmental organization that engages armed non-State actors towards respect of international humanitarian norms, said that the recent signing by the CNF came after years of engagement, training and workshop in the past.

In 2006, the Chin rebel group, which has been fighting for self-determination, democracy and federalism, had signed the Deed of Commitment banning anti-personnel mines.

The CNF reached ceasefire agreements with the central government of Burma in 2012.#