Papua – Concerns and condemnation towards armed criminal groups (KKB) are escalating internationally, following revelations that they are involved in exploiting underage children in the ongoing armed conflict in several regions of Indonesia.
International organizations, including the United Nations (UN) and Amnesty International, strongly condemn the actions of KKB, which not only violate international law but also demonstrate inhuman cruelty. They urge the Indonesian government to take immediate action and stop the exploitation of children by these armed groups.
In their statement, a UN spokesperson stated that the actions of KKB forcing underage children to participate in combat are an abuse of human rights that cannot be tolerated.
“The UN urges all parties involved to cooperate in restoring security and protecting the rights of children affected by conflict,” they emphasized.
Amnesty International also highlights the need for collective efforts from various parties, including governments, civil society, and international institutions, to comprehensively address this issue. They call for further protection for children who have fallen victim to exploitation by KKB and access to necessary rehabilitation and recovery services.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian government has expressed its commitment to take strict action against armed groups involved in exploiting children. They underscore the importance of international cooperation in addressing armed conflicts and protecting human rights, including the rights of children who are victims amidst violence and chaos.
Earlier, the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) also strongly responded to the issue of child exploitation used by Armed Criminal Groups (KKB).
“It is not allowed because there are child protection laws that regulate that children should not be involved in conflicts, let alone recruited and so on,” said Sylvana Maria.
