Facebook and TikTok Algorithms Promote Child Recruitment by Armed Groups in Colombia
Human Rights Watch reports that social media algorithms on Facebook and TikTok promote content that helps armed groups in Colombia recruit children, with at least 1,500 minors enlisted since 2021. The platforms' algorithms amplify posts glorifying armed group life and offering fake jobs, with indigenous children representing half of all recruitment cases.
What happened
Human Rights Watch published a report on 24 August 2026 documenting how armed groups in Colombia recruit minors through Facebook and TikTok. The report found that social media posts glorify armed group life and offer fake job positions to young users.
The platforms' algorithms reportedly promote content from armed groups including the Clan del Golfo cartel, the ELN (National Liberation Army), and dissident FARC factions. At least 1,500 minors have been recruited since 2021, with social media contributing to a sharp increase in child recruitment.
Reported impact
More than 30% of reported cases involved children aged 10 to 14 years, with recruitment ages averaging 15 years between 2021 and 2025. Indigenous communities represent 4% of Colombia's population but account for approximately half of child recruitment cases by armed groups.
Armed groups use recruits primarily for combat, intelligence gathering, and drone operation. Girls, representing 40% of cases, face sexual violence. Armed group social media content showcases money, jewellery, and narcocorridos music to attract young users.
Index analysis
Human Rights Watch reported the problem to Meta and ByteDance. Both companies stated they deleted reported content from armed groups, and Meta said it continually works to improve its strategy against minor recruitment, while ByteDance claimed it proactively prevents armed group promotion.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.