Bogotá (HRNW) — August 24, 2026: Child recruitment by armed groups has increased sharply in Colombia, with at least 1,500 children reportedly recruited since 2021, according to data reviewed by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The organization says the increase is occurring amid growing violence and the expansion of armed and criminal groups in remote areas of the country.
According to HRW, armed groups are exploiting poverty, social exclusion, domestic violence and limited access to education to recruit children, often promising money, power or prestige. Recruitment is also increasingly taking place through social media, where armed groups allegedly promote propaganda, fake job opportunities and content portraying armed-group life as attractive.
The report found that Indigenous children account for nearly half of reported recruitment cases, despite Indigenous people representing around 4 percent of Colombia’s population. More than 30 percent of reported cases involved children between the ages of 10 and 14.
Children recruited by armed groups may be used for intelligence gathering, carrying messages, operating drones, guarding hostages, drug trafficking and, in some cases, direct participation in hostilities. HRW also reported that girls face particular risks of sexual violence and exploitation.
Human Rights Watch has called on Colombia’s new administration to adopt a comprehensive strategy focused on protecting children, strengthening justice mechanisms and addressing poverty, corruption and barriers to education, rather than relying solely on military force.
Human Rights Angle
The recruitment and use of children by armed groups represents a grave violation of children’s rights and international humanitarian law. Every child has the right to safety, education, family life and protection from exploitation, violence and armed conflict.
HRNW calls for stronger child-protection mechanisms, accountability for those responsible for recruitment, and meaningful support for children who escape or are rescued from armed groups.
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Disclaimer
This report is based primarily on findings published by Human Rights Watch on August 24, 2026, including interviews and data reviewed by the organization. Allegations concerning armed groups and other parties are presented as reported and should be subject to independent investigation and due legal process. HRNW does not declare any individual or organization guilty without competent legal determination.
