Child Labor: Understanding the Impact and Solutions
Child labor is a pressing issue around the world, with many children forced to work in dangerous and exploitative conditions. Let’s take a closer look at some of these children and their work globally.
Shafiul, a 13-year-old boy in Dhaka, has been working in a silver polishing factory for three years, earning a meager wage of 9.40 Euros per week. His parents struggled to support their family due to low income, prompting Shafiul to start working. To escape his daily struggles, he spends two hours at a UNICEF Child Protection Center, where he receives meals and a safe space to rest, shower, learn, and play with others in similar situations.
Anayet, a 15-year-old peer leader, works to identify and address cases of child labor, child marriage, neglect, and abuse in his community. Through a UNICEF-supported center offering basic math and literacy courses, psychosocial support, vocational training, and extracurricular activities, Anayet is making a difference in Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.
In Jordan, Maha, a 7-year-old girl, relies on a UNICEF-provided bus to get to school. Her father, Ahmad, emphasizes the importance of education for his children, especially in remote settlements where children are at risk of child labor due to parents working on farms. Reliable transportation like the UNICEF bus ensures that children in remote areas of Jordan can continue their education without interruption.
Job, a 12-year-old in the Democratic Republic of Congo, works in a stone quarry to earn money for school fees and support his family. Despite the risks and challenges, Job remains determined to pursue his education and help his parents. Unfortunately, many working children face hazardous or exploitative working conditions.
Alphonsine, a 16-year-old girl, had to drop out of school to care for her siblings after her parents‘ divorce. She used to transport bricks in a quarry, earning a minimal wage that took a toll on her health. With the help of a UNICEF-supported training center, Alphonsine learned baking skills that transformed her life and enabled her siblings to return to school.
Child labor continues to impact children worldwide, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions and support systems to protect vulnerable youth. Through organizations like UNICEF and community-driven initiatives, progress can be made in combating child labor and ensuring a brighter future for all children.
