HRW reports child recruitment via social media

Human Rights Watch released a report on August 24, 2026, accusing Meta Platforms and ByteDance — TikTok Shop of failing to prevent the spread of content produced by Colombian armed groups to recruit children, and in some cases appearing to promote such posts. The report states that since 2021, around 1,500 children have been recruited by armed groups, with dissident FARC factions responsible for 74% of documented cases. Almost half of child recruits are Indigenous children, and girls account for about 40%, facing particular exposure to sexual violence. HRW informed Meta and ByteDance, who said they removed the specific content. The report highlights the ongoing influence of armed groups in Colombia despite the 2016 peace agreement. Newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella has vowed to crack down on armed groups and plans a military alliance with the United States and Israel.