UN warns of increased child recruitment risk after Colombia earthquake destroys schools

The UN warns that the collapse of nearly 4,000 schools in Colombia due to a recent earthquake increases the risk of child recruitment by armed groups. The suspension of school activities in critical regions like Chocó and Valle del Cauca leaves thousands of children vulnerable.

María José Torres, the UN resident coordinator in Colombia, highlighted the urgent need for rapid reconstruction of the education system. She stressed that this is crucial not only for resuming the academic calendar but also for re-establishing a vital social protection space in territories where illegal armed actors maintain a strong presence.

Torres explained that child recruitment is a pre-existing problem in Colombia, and the current situation of children out of school could exacerbate it. The lack of educational facilities also impacts other essential services, as major hospitals in these vulnerable areas remain inoperable.

The earthquake, a magnitude 7.4 tremor registered on August 10th, has resulted in 331 deaths and 4,439 injuries, affecting approximately 196,000 families across 16 departments. In response to the extensive damage, the UN has updated its humanitarian response plan and is appealing to the international community for $148 million. These funds are intended to assist 127,000 individuals in extreme need through rental subsidies, direct assistance, and construction materials to expedite recovery efforts.

“

The recruitment of children in Colombia is a pre-existing problem. We are concerned that the situation of children out of school could exacerbate this situation.