Shocking footage has emerged of Egyptian children being dressed in white ‘death shrouds’ in preparation for their ‘martyrdom’ by pro-Morsi families in a large demonstration at Rabaa al-Adaweya. The children were heard chanting pre-rehearsed lines and were seen carrying posters that say “I am ready to die!” during a short march. This is not the first time that such images have emerged, however media and government attention over the issue remains spotty, as debates over politics have quickly overshadowed social problems plaguing Egypt. Under both international and local law, using children under 18 years as a tool for politics and placing these children at severe risk of death or injury is illegal. With an impending dispersion by the government of the pro-Morsi demonstration at Rabaa al-Adaweya, it is evident that the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of children will be put at severe risk. The National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (a government department) has expressed concerns over the issue and has even labelled the use of children as a political tool “human trafficking.” However, with a budget of 48 million Egyptian pounds ($US 6.85 million) and just 193 employees and…
