Red Hand Day

February 12, Monday

Red Hand Day is celebrated annually on February 12. This international day is dedicated to the fight against the use of child soldiers and is intended to draw attention to the problem of recruitment of minors into military conflicts. The date is timed to coincide with the anniversary of the entry into force of the Additional Protocol to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict, which was signed in 2002.

Purpose and activities
Drawing attention to violations of children's rights occurring in armed conflict zones and the fight to free children from the army and illegal paramilitary groups.

Symbols - a red handprint, symbolizing protest against violence against children.

Educational and charitable events - schools, human rights organizations and activists organize campaigns, exhibitions and events to raise awareness of the consequences of military actions on children.

On this day, many participants leave red handprints on posters and appeal to governments to strengthen the fight against the use of children in military purposes, as well as to provide child soldiers with assistance and rehabilitation.

Red Hand Day

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Red Hand Day in other years

2021 February 12, Friday
2022 February 12, Saturday
2023 February 12, Sunday
2025 February 12, Wednesday

Red Hand Day in other countries