The recruitment of minors by drug cartels in Mexico is a growing practice that puts the lives of adolescents at risk. These young people survive on average between one and three years after joining criminal groups, warned the Organization of American States (OAS).
During a forum in the Senate, specialists pointed out that this situation is not a side effect of organized crime, but rather a strategy that criminal groups use to control territories and strengthen their operations. They also indicated that these organizations systematically use children and adolescents.
Experts emphasized that Mexico lacks a specific criminal offense to punish the forced recruitment of minors, which complicates addressing the problem.
They noted that currently, authorities tend to intervene only after the harm has already occurred, prosecuting minors as perpetrators of crimes rather than as victims.
Researchers and international organizations agreed on the need to create an independent legal framework that allows for the direct prosecution of those who recruit minors.
Organizations such as UNICEF indicated that recruited children must be treated with a differentiated approach, prioritizing their protection over criminal punishment. They also warned that the lack of a clear legal framework hinders an effective state response to this phenomenon.
Finally, experts urged the establishment of comprehensive public policies to prevent recruitment and provide support to victims.
Source: unotv
