Colombia court lifts restrictions on aerial strikes near recruited minors

A court in Bogotá has lifted a provisional restriction on offensive aerial operations against armed groups in Colombia, even when intelligence suggests the presence of recruited minors in camps. The ruling by the 34th Family Court stipulates that the presence of a minor does not automatically make a camp a legitimate target. Instead, authorities must verify intelligence, evaluate risks to minors, and consider less harmful operational alternatives under International Humanitarian Law.

Security experts have expressed concern that removing absolute restrictions could allow armed groups to use children as human shields to hinder military actions. The court emphasized that the state maintains a duty to prevent recruitment and protect children from being used in the conflict.

Parallel to these military developments, reports from Human Rights Watch and the Defensoría del Pueblo indicate a rise in digital recruitment. Since 2021, at least 1,500 minors have been recruited via social media platforms, with a significant increase noted in 2023. Groups such as the FARC dissidents and the Clan del Golfo are primary actors. The recruitment frequently targets youth aged 15 to 16, often exploiting poverty and lack of education. Many victims are from indigenous communities, and over 30% of those recruited are between 10 and 14 years old.