Colombia’s child welfare institution faces criticism for omitting the word “girl”

Medellín, Colombia - Feminist groups have taken issue with the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF) for omitting the word "girl" in a recent document, which called for the "exclusive" use of the terms "boys and adolescents." The ICBF recently underwent a leadership change, with new director Carolina Restrepo appointed by right-wing President Abelardo de la Espriella.

Restrepo has since altered the guidelines to use the term "childhood," but legal experts argue this shift in language may not be sufficient for effectively protecting minors.

Carlos Cabrera, the acting regional director for Huila, sparked controversy with his internal document, which proposed the "exclusive" use of "boys and adolescents," omitting any mention of girls. Critics, including social, feminist, and human rights organizations, have condemned the decision. Upon receiving backlash, Restrepo released a statement stating that the ICBF will now refer to "childhood" rather than boys, girls, and adolescents, emphasizing that this encompasses all children while respecting their dignity, rights, and the specific protections afforded to them under the Colombian Constitution and law.

However, the controversy surrounding the change remains. In Hispanic countries like Colombia, feminist movements have long argued for explicitly naming women and girls, as Spanish traditionally places the masculine as the default in plural forms. The 2006 Children and Adolescents Code established the usage of "boys, girls, and adolescents" to account for distinct material circumstances of each group.

María Cristina Hurtado, a lawyer and co-drafter of the code, contends that failing to name girls erases their existence and the unique violence they face, such as forced marriage, early pregnancy, and female genital mutilation.

Colombia banned female genital mutilation in June 2026 and ranks 20th worldwide for the highest proportion of girls married or in unions before the age of 15. According to ICBF data, 81% of reported violence cases involve girls and female adolescents. Critics argue that leaving out the term "girl" risks invisibilizing and failing to address the specific issues girls and women face.

Meanwhile, Restrepo dismisses the criticism, arguing that the ICBF faces more pressing matters than "multiplying words" when a single expression, "childhood," already includes everyone.