World Vision advises the UN on the causes of conflict in areas where we work. Small arms proliferation means children can be used to fight wars. Grassroots peace building may include community soccer games where former enemies gather to cheer for their children.

World Vision advocates for the protection of children's rights in conflict zones. We appeal to the Canadian government, and work through institutions such as the United Nations. We push for policies that protect children's rights in times of war, and address children's needs in cases where their rights have been violated.

World Vision has worked in dozens of conflict-prone regions. We analyze the causes of conflict, then present policy makers with our findings. For example, we look at the impact of the proliferation of small arms on children. In cases where children have been forced to fight in wars, we look at the many challenges faced in their reintegration.

This provides government and UN bodies with information so they can respond appropriately to the complexities of a given conflict.

We also present policy makers with examples of grassroots peacebuilding initiatives. In our work on the ground, we have found community-based conflict resolution to be incredibly powerful.

World Vision is a member of the Watchlist for Children and Armed Conflict—a group dedicated to monitoring violations of children's rights in armed conflict. We are also committed to working with the United Nations Secretary General's Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict.