Human Lives Human Rights: The International Labor Organization (ILO) has designated June 12 as the World Day Against Child Labor, an annual event aimed at highlighting the widespread problem of child labor and the necessary actions to eradicate it. This year marks a significant milestone, as world leaders reaffirmed their commitment to eliminate child labor by 2025 through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The SDGs, adopted in 2015, include a global pledge to end child labor, forced labor, human trafficking, and modern slavery. Specifically, SDG 8.7 calls for urgent and effective action to prohibit and eliminate the worst forms of child labor, including child soldiers, by 2025. The goal is to ensure that all forms of child labor are eradicated.
According to the ILO, approximately 218 million children worldwide are engaged in some form of work, with many working full-time. Unfortunately, over half of these children are exposed to the worst forms of child labor, including armed conflicts. This is a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to address this critical issue.
The ILO was founded in 1919 with a primary objective of abolishing child labor. Since its inception, the organization has relied on the adoption and monitoring of labor standards to achieve this goal. One key standard is the minimum age for admission to employment or work, which aims to protect children from exploitation and ensure their well-being.
As governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, civil society, and millions of people around the world come together to mark World Day Against Child Labor, it is crucial that we recognize the progress made so far and reaffirm our commitment to eradicating this scourge. We must also acknowledge the challenges that remain and work collectively towards achieving a future where every child can grow up free from exploitation and have access to quality education and opportunities for a better life.
