ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Today marks the observance of World Day Against Child Labour, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the plight of child workers and advocating for their rights to education, safety, and a childhood free from exploitation. The theme for this year, “Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up efforts,” underscores the need for accelerated action to eliminate child labour worldwide.
Global Snapshot: Progress and Challenges
According to a joint report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF, approximately 138 million children were engaged in child labour in 2024. Of these, around 54 million were involved in hazardous work that endangers their health, safety, and development. While this marks a modest improvement—over 22 million fewer children in child labour compared to 2020—the progress is insufficient to meet the global target of eliminating child labour by 2025.
The agriculture sector remains the largest employer of child labour, accounting for 61% of cases, followed by services at 27% and industry at 13%. Sub-Saharan Africa continues to bear the brunt, with 87 million children engaged in child labour, representing a significant portion of the global total. In contrast, regions like Asia and the Pacific have seen some progress, reducing child labour rates from 6% to 3%.
Pakistan’s Persistent Struggle
In Pakistan, child labour remains a significant issue, with millions of children engaged in various forms of work, particularly in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and domestic services. The prevalence of child labour is notably high in Punjab, where the rate stands at 14%. Experts attribute this to ineffective laws and insufficient enforcement, leading to a situation where children are deprived of education and subjected to hazardous working conditions.
Despite the existence of laws prohibiting child labour, such as the Employment of Children Act 1991 and the Bonded Labour System Abolition Act 1992, enforcement remains weak. This loophole allows exploitative practices to persist, trapping children in cycles of poverty and limiting their future prospects. The government’s failure to implement effective measures has led to an increase in child labour, with experts warning that without substantial policy changes, the situation will continue to deteriorate.
Call for Comprehensive Action
To address the root causes of child labour, experts emphasize the need for a systemic approach that includes strengthening social protection systems, improving access to quality education, and creating decent work opportunities for parents. Investing in these areas can help alleviate the economic pressures that force families to send their children to work.
On this World Day Against Child Labour, it is imperative for governments, employers, and civil society to renew their commitment to eradicating child labour. Only through collective and sustained efforts can we ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.
