compound with adults but of course in different cells. To ameliorate the situation the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with partners, has been providing training on national codes and legislation, internationally applicable standards and on the implementation of the legal instruments in the administration of juvenile justice. This also includes the provision of material assistance during post trial detentions. On the other hand, the government has been providing protection to children from various forms of potential abuses and violation. Some of the cases addressed by the Eritrean courts were dealt as criminal cases while others were civil cases that affected the interest of the child. 339. Alleged juvenile crimes and offences reported to the police also increased from 6,105 in 2008 (11.8% females) to 7,299 in 2009 (11.75% females) and 8,035 in 2010 (13% females). About 88 % were committed by male offenders. Moreover, Petty offences and crimes against property represented the highest (87.95%) of misdemeanors. Children and armed conflicts 340. Eritrea has signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the involvement of children in armed conflict on 16 February 2005. The obligations under the Optional Protocol are already implemented in Eritrea. The minimum recruitment age is set at 18 years with the protection in regard to proof of age, informed consent and duty of care obligations required under the Protocol. During the border war with Ethiopia, the Government exerted much effort to avoid any victimization of children due to the conflict. The destruction inflicted by the Ethiopian army during the war and in the subsequent occupation of sovereign Eritrean territories did impact on the life of the people. The extent of the damage inflicted on communities and families including children are extraordinary, as explained in other parts. Conclusion 341. There are favorable laws and policies in all sectors that guarantee the rights and opportunities of children that drive pragmatic approaches and practice. Significant progress has been achieved in the promotion of child rights but there are challenges. The commitment and support of families and communities, in the upbringing and development of children is strong. The social and economic challenge of vulnerable families is, however, still significant. The prevailing limitations of opportunity in vocational centers for vulnerable children are also another problem. Furthermore, more focus is needed in promotion of adequate care and protection to children with disabilities and those in conflict with the law. G. Rights & Welfare of Persons with disabilities (PWDs) (i) PWDs Rights Respected and Protected 342. According to the 2010 EPHS, there are about 160,000 PWDs affected by severe and moderate disabilities in Eritrea. War disabled persons constitute 20% of the total. The Page 87 of 100