Djiboutian security forces reportedly opened fire on youths peacefully demonstrating in the city of Obock in late December, killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring several others, the Paris-based International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) said Wednesday (January 9th).

The youths -- mostly primary and middle school students -- were protesting the lack of regional sports infrastructure during an event organised by the Sports Secretary of State on December 30th.

"Once again, this disproportionate use of force by state agents is an odious and unforgivable act," said FIDH President Souhayr Belhassen. "When a power in place hurts children, it shows how much it despises human rights."

The FIDH and the Djiboutian Human Rights League condemned the act, calling on the United Nations, the African Union and the international community to address Djibouti's alleged human rights violations and demand that Djibouti respect human rights in accordance with international commitments.