Colombia’s armed groups recruit children and train them in drone warfare, rights group says
Summary
In Colombia, illegal armed groups are recruiting children and training them to use drones armed with explosives for violent attacks. Human Rights Watch found that these groups use social media to recruit children as they fight for control over rural areas involved in drug trafficking and illegal mining.Key Facts
- Drug gangs and rebel groups in Colombia are increasingly recruiting children for combat and dangerous tasks.
- Children are being trained to pilot drones equipped with explosives.
- At least 1,500 children have been recruited by armed groups since 2021, with 625 cases reported in 2024.
- Child recruitment declined after a 2016 peace deal but has risen again due to smaller rebel groups filling the void.
- Armed groups use social media to recruit children and promote rebel life.
- These groups use drones in attacks that have caused deaths and injuries; 121 drone attacks were reported in early 2026.
- Girls in these groups sometimes face forced sexual abuse by commanders.
- Authorities and social protection systems are struggling to prevent child recruitment and provide support for rescued children.
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