World Day Against Child Labor - Let’s act on our commitments: End Child Labor!

Every 12 June, the International Labor Organization (ILO) joins forces with its constituents and partners around the world to commemorate the World Day Against Child Labor. Established in 2002 by ILO, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle to eradicate child labor and protect the rights of children worldwide. It gained traction from ratifications of fundamental conventions-ILO Convention No. 138 on the minimum age for employment and ILO Convention No. 182 on the worst forms of child labor. Although the government puts in the effort, child labor remains a critical issue.

Child labor is the exploitation of children through work that harms their development or education. It deprives children of their childhood, potential and growth. According to UNICEF, almost 1 in 10 children are prone to child labor globally, while some are forced into hazardous work (through trafficking). The children are often found in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and domestic work sectors, often with low pay and poor working conditions.

Child Labor is still prevalent due to larger socioeconomic issues, such as poverty, low levels of education, and insufficient awareness of various human rights. Many families in different parts of the world depend on the money their children bring in. Children are forced into labor if they are unable to receive social services and high-quality education. According to UNICEF and ILO, COVID-19 resulted in a surge in poverty and an uptick in child labor. Some studies claim that a one percentage point increase in poverty leads to a minimum 0.7 percent rise in child labor (in certain countries).

This year’s theme for World Day Against Child Labor is “Let’s act on our commitments: End Child Labor!” This day presents a vital opportunity to raise awareness, advocate for change, and contribute towards a future free from child labor.The subject emphasizes how crucial strong social protection programs are to stooping and dealing with child labor. The day holds immense significance due to the following reasons -

Awareness and Advocacy: Raising public awareness about child labor and advocating for its eradication.

Global Solidarity: Working together internationally to combat child labor through collaboration and shared resources.

Policy and Legislative Action: Enacting and enforcing strong laws that prohibit child labor.

Sustainable Development: Promoting economic development strategies that create decent jobs for adults, reducing the need for child labor.

Child Rights and Well-being: Prioritizing the protection of children’s rights and ensuring their well-being, which includes freedom from exploitative labor.

A multifaceted strategy involving governments, international organizations, civil society, and the commercial sector is needed to eliminate child labor. Enforcing labor regulations, expanding educational opportunities, and implementing social protection programs are all critical tasks performed by governments.

Eradicating child labor has a seemingly minor effect across industries, impacting individuals within them. For instance, some individuals in rural areas like small farm owners might face initial difficulties, but the overall impact is positive. Children can finally attend school, leading to a future of skilled workforce that benefits all industries. Additionally, improved working conditions and safety standards create a healthier and more productive workforce across sectors like manufacturing and mining. The garment industry can expect ethical practices to boost its reputation, while domestic workers in wealthy households might need to find alternative childcare solutions.  Ending child labor creates a more skilled, healthy workforce, leading to greater economic opportunities for everyone in the long run.

Education and public awareness campaigns are essential to combating child labor. Through campaigns, media attention, and educational initiatives, society’s attitudes and behaviors can be influenced, highlighting the importance of upholding children’s rights and giving them a better future.

In conclusion, World Day Against Child Labor is an important global call to action. We can build a world where every child is free to develop, learn, and thrive by fortifying social safety nets, upholding the law and encouraging cooperation among people.  As activists and communities coordinate internationally on this day, the message resonates clearly-child labor hinders human progress.