World Day Against Child Labour

The theme for this year’s observance is, “In conflicts and disasters, protect children from child labour”

Words: Vandana Devi   Images: Various Sources

International Labour Organisation (ILO) established 12 June 2002 as the World Day Against Child Labour. The theme for this year is – “In conflicts and disasters, protect children from child labour”.

Child labour deprives children of schooling, or requires them to assume the dual burden of schooling and work. It is the endangerment of children and is in violation of international laws and national legislations.

India has committed to free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education for all children by 2030. India has also committed to eliminate child labour by 2025. This is as part of the Sustainable Development Goals which has been agreed and signed by the country.

The theme is very much in tune with present occurrences. Syria and Afghanistan accounts for more than 50% of child casualties and refugees. And even in the country, drought and the ongoing water crises are leaving children defenceless. Around 164 million children were affected by the drought last year. Children are being pushed to child marriage, child labour, trafficking and many such horrific things.

Keeping all this in mind, the observance this year wants to focus on the impact of conflicts and disasters on child labour. It aims to raise awareness and activism to prevent child labour and foster a worldwide movement against child labour.