Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001758/2025
to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Rule 144
Leila Chaibi (The Left)
Representatives of the Nasa people recently reported the serious situation of children and adolescents being recruited in the north of Cauca, with 120 cases recorded in 2024. The Ombudsman’s Office of Colombia (institution defending human rights) has recorded 409 cases at national level, including 300 in Cauca; 51% of the victims were indigenous people and 39% were girls.
The UN Secretary-General’s report on children and armed conflict in Colombia highlighted a 58% increase in cases between 2021 and 2023 compared with the previous reporting period. Recruitment is often accompanied by physical, psychological and sexual violence.
- 1.The EU supports the peace processes in Colombia, but what measures have been taken to end the recruitment of minors by armed groups, and what specific steps will the EU take to put pressure on armed groups, ensuring that they respect international humanitarian law?
- 2.What initiatives have been put in place to protect children and adolescents and prevent them from being recruited in this way, especially those who come from the most vulnerable communities?
- 3.Will the EU step up its support for local stakeholders involved in protecting the rights of children in areas affected by the conflict?
Submitted: 30.4.2025