witnessed or been forced to take part in serious human rights violations and atrocities. There should be a proper evidence-based assessment of the impact that these experiences have had on each child, including on their personal and educational development, physical and mental health and ability to trust and feel safe.147 In cases in which it is suspected that the child has participated in serious crimes, including crimes related to terrorism and atrocities, such assessments should also consider the age of the child, the availability of evidence and the circumstances of the case, while treating the best interests of the child as a primary consideration, in accordance with domestic and international law. 82. In cases in which it is considered that a child may pose an actual, proven security threat, authorities must still use the least restrictive response possible and adhere to the principles of justice for children. Assessments must still take into consideration what is required in rehabilitation in a manner that is respectful of the child’s rights, as well as what is restorative and addresses their needs. It is important that any rehabilitative actions do not stigmatize a child or put them at risk of being ostracized or neglected by their families or communities.148 Particular care should be taken in situations in which children need to be integrated into ethnic groups, communities or cultural environments dissimilar from their own.149 147 Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), art. 39; Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (2000), art. 6(3). 148 The Paris Principles (2007), para. 7.42. 149 Ibid., para. 7.42. 1.4 Key Recommendations 83. The following are key recommendations: a. Treat all persons under the age of 18 as “children” entitled to special protections. Children have special rights and protections that apply in all situations, irrespective of age, sex or other status, including actual or perceived family or personal affiliation with any armed group. Take steps to fulfill state obligations with respect to those children. b. Treat all individuals under the age of 18 affected by the foreign fighter phenomenon first and foremost as victims of abuses and violations of their human rights. Individuals who were recruited or used by armed groups when they were children should also be treated as victims in light of, among others, legal prohibition of recruitment or use of children by armed groups. This does not preclude investigation and prosecution of a child above the age of criminal responsibility, in line with international juvenile justice and fair trial standards, in situations in which there is credible evidence of crimes committed by the child. c. Provide all care and support to children affected by the foreign fighter phenomenon without discrimination or stigmatization. States are responsible for children who are their nationals and have an obligation to readmit them to their territory. d. The best interests of the child must be a primary consideration in all actions or measures concerning children by both public and private actors and in legislative, judicial, and administrative decisions. All assessments of the best interests of the child must be conducted on an individual basis with proce- 37.