Feb. 12 (UPI) -- The recruitment and use of children by armed groups in Colombia increased 300% over the past five years, according to cases verified by the United Nations, amid a sustained rise in violence that continues to affect rural communities.
The figures were released Thursday by UNICEF as part of the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers. According to the most recent data verified by the United Nations, on average, one minor is recruited every 20 hours by armed groups in Colombia.
"Children in Colombia are not only caught in the crossfire, but have for years been recruited or used by armed groups. The consequences this has for them and their families are devastating," said Tanya Chapuisat, UNICEF representative in Colombia.
"It is urgent to take action to protect children from recruitment and use by armed groups, as well as from sexual violence and other grave violations. The effects of these traumatic experiences can follow them for life, and it is our duty to prevent them," she said.
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