World Day Against Child Labour: What You Need to Know and How to Combat It

June 12 is World Day Against Child Labour, an important date to reflect and reinforce the global commitment to eradicate this practice. This is a global problem that affects millions of children around the world, depriving them of their right to childhood and healthy development. Let’s explore what child labour is, the associated global trends and, most importantly, how we can combat this worrying reality.

What is Child Labor?

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), child labour is defined as any activity that harms the health, development or education of children and deprives them of their childhood. This includes hazardous or harmful activities such as sexual exploitation, forced labour or tasks that interfere with their school attendance.

Global Overview and Trends

Global statistics reveal an alarming reality. More than 160 million children worldwide are involved in child labour, with 79 million performing hazardous activities that directly threaten their health and safety. Unfortunately, progress in reducing child labour has stalled in recent years, with the absolute number of children affected increasing.

Key Statistics:

• Child labour affects more boys than girls, particularly in rural areas.
• More than 70% of children in child labor are in agriculture.
• Most child labor occurs in the family context, often on farms.
• Child labor is linked to school dropout, limiting children’s future opportunities.

Ways to Combat Child Labor

Combating child labour requires a global commitment and the implementation of effective strategies. Social protection plays a crucial role in preventing and reducing child labour. Here are some best practices:

1. Social Protection Programs

Develop and implement comprehensive and inclusive social protection programmes that provide financial support to vulnerable families, reducing pressure on children to contribute financially.

• Reduce administrative burdens to facilitate access and limit deletion errors.
• Avoid rigid conditionalities that could hinder access for families in need.

2. Integration with Education and Health

Combat child labor by integrating social protection programs with educational and health interventions.

• Improve access to quality education.
• Ensure universal coverage of health care adapted to the needs of children.

3. Awareness and Sensitization

Promote awareness of the risks of child labor and children's rights.

• Hold regular information sessions with vulnerable families.
• Integrate messages about the importance of education and child protection into programs.

By adopting these practices and commitments, we can work together to eliminate child labor and create a world where all children can enjoy their childhood and opportunities for full development.

Together, we can make a difference in children’s lives and protect their fundamental rights. Let’s join forces to combat child labor and ensure a better future for all children.