Millions of children all over the world are routinely engaged in labour. According to UNICEF, more than 218 millions of children between the ages of 5 and 17 are involved in paid and unpaid forms of labour; and more than 152 million are its victims. The latter are called “child labourers”, who are deprived of their childhood, dignity, potential and the opportunity to attend school. In addition, they are forced to do work that is dangerous and harmful to their physical and mental development.

Child labour can be found in various sectors, such as but not limited to, agriculture, manufacturing, construction, public utilities, domestic service. It also takes many different forms - forced labour, slavery, pornography, prostitution, drug trafficking and other illicit activities.

Despite a steady decline, progress is too slow. At current rates, it is estimated that over 100 million children will still be trapped in children labour by 2020. Its continued persistence poses a threat not only to the health and well-being of children but also to national economies. It also reinforces intergenerational cycles of poverty and impedes achieving progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

Source: Unicef