Child soldiers released by FARC reunited with families

World Today

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Child soldiers who fought with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) have been undergoing physical and psychological exams after their release last week.

CCTV America’s Michelle Begue reports.

The release of 13 child soldiers by Colombia’s FARC rebel group took place in secrecy. To protect their privacy, the International Red Cross didn’t release their names, ages or the locations of the handovers.

This is the first phase of the FARC’s commitment to reunite child soldiers with their families as part of the peace accord.

Although the guerilla group said it only has 21 soldiers under the age of 15, some Colombian officials estimate the true number is around 200.

During the 52-year conflict, the FARC has been accused of forcing children to join its rebel group, which is a human rights violation.