Wed Nov 19 17:56:36 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewrite of the text as a news article:
Summary:
Colombia is grappling with a surge in child recruitment by armed groups, particularly the EMC. Recent government offensives against these groups have resulted in the deaths of several child soldiers, sparking debate about the government’s responsibility in such cases and whether their actions adhere to international humanitarian law. While the government asserts its commitment to protecting children, critics argue that more must be done to prevent recruitment and minimize harm to child soldiers during military operations.
News Article:
Child Soldier Deaths in Colombia Spark Debate Over Government Responsibility
Bogota, Colombia – The deaths of several child soldiers in recent Colombian government offensives have ignited a heated debate about the state’s responsibility in protecting minors forcibly recruited by armed groups. President Gustavo Petro confirmed that at least eight underage recruits were killed in military operations this month, bringing the total number of teenage fatalities in the last two months to at least 12.
The deaths come amid a concerning rise in child recruitment by armed groups, including the Estado Mayor Central (EMC), a dissident faction of the former FARC. Government statistics show a 1,000% increase in child recruitment from 2021 to 2024. The United Nations has also reported a surge in recruitment cases, with some victims as young as nine years old.
Critics, including members of Congress, have condemned the deaths, suggesting they may constitute violations of international humanitarian law. Some lawmakers are calling for the resignation of Defence Minister Pedro Sanchez, with Representative Katherine Miranda imploring President Petro to “answer for the state crime you are committing against children who are victims of forced recruitment.”
International law experts emphasize that child recruits are victims of conflict and entitled to protection under the Geneva Convention, which requires states to take all feasible measures to ensure child recruits under the age of 15 are not involved in hostilities.
Hilda Molano, a coordinator at the Coalition Against the Involvement of Children and Young People in the Armed Conflict in Colombia (COALICO), acknowledges the complex nature of assigning blame but urges all parties to prioritize the rights of children. She called for increased government efforts to deter recruitment and improve security in conflict zones.
President Petro has defended the government’s actions, stating they comply with international law and that his administration has facilitated the release of over 2,400 minors from armed groups. He affirmed the government’s resolve to continue its campaign against the EMC.
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