Child labour what does it mean

Children who do not complete their primary education are likely to remain illiterate and never acquire the skills needed to get a job and contribute to the development of a modern economy.

Consequently, child labour results in under-skilled, unqualified workers and jeopardizes future improvements of skills in the workforce. Children have the same human rights as adults. But by virtue of their age and the fact that they are still growing and gaining knowledge and experience, they have some distinct rights as children. These rights include protection from economic exploitation and work that may be dangerous to their health, safety or morals and that may hinder their development or impede their access to education.

The complexity of the issue of child labour means that companies need to address the issue sensitively, and must not take action which may force working children into more exploitative forms of work.

Nevertheless, as Principle 5 states, the goal of all companies should be the abolition of child labour within their sphere of influence. The UN Global Compact Action Pledge on eliminating child labour reflects our commitment to work with our participants and engage actively with all relevant stakeholders to step up efforts to help end the scourge of child labour and forced labour. Developing awareness and understanding of the causes and consequences of child labour is the first step that a company can take toward action against child labour.

This means identifying the issues and determining whether or not child labour is a problem within the business. Companies sourcing in specific industry sectors with geographically distant supply chains need to be particularly vigilant. Natasha Australian. Veena Indian. Priya Indian. Neerja Indian. Zira US English. Oliver British. Wendy British. Fred US English. Tessa South African. Kunaal Bhargava : Child labor is an issue I think about a lot, as these are kids as old as me, younger than me, working instead of going to school like me, we encounter it every day, so getting the community involved is an effective way to check child labor.

Kunaal Bhargava : We encounter it every day, so getting the community involved is an effective way to check child labor. Select another language:. Please enter your email address: Subscribe. Notify me of new comments via email. Cancel Report. Child labour is defined by international standards as work that is hazardous, demands too many hours, or is performed by children who are too young.

Children work because their survival depends on it , because adults take advantage of their vulnerability, and because national education systems are weak. Child labour is sometimes the result of ingrained customs and traditions. Schooling is another important factor. Many communities do not have enough schools, or do not view education as a good alternative to work. Sometimes, children seek work themselves, because their families are financially strained.