Rising Recruitment of Minors by Armed Groups in Colombia Sparks Concern

A recent report by the International Crisis Group reveals a significant increase in the recruitment of minors by armed and criminal groups in Colombia, rising from approximately 100 cases in 2016 to at least 620 by 2024. This surge is attributed to the failure of the Colombian government to fill territorial gaps left by the FARC after a peace agreement, allowing these groups to exploit vulnerable communities, including migrants and indigenous populations. Recruiters often use social media to lure children with false promises of wealth and protection. The report emphasizes the urgent need for the government to implement protective policies and increase resources for monitoring schools to prevent such recruitment activities.

Key Details: • Recruitment of minors increased from 100 in 2016 to at least 620 in 2024. • Groups target vulnerable children, especially in migrant and indigenous communities. • Social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok are used for recruitment. • Urgent call for Colombian authorities to strengthen protective policies. • Increased monitoring of schools recommended to prevent recruitment.