On June 12, the World Day Against Child Labour is observed globally. Its objective is to spark the growing global movement against child labour. The United Nations believes that child labour could be eradicated if people and governments focused on the primary cause and recognized the connection between social justice and child labor.
A Childhood Free from Exploitation
Children should experience childhood in an environment where their wellbeing and development is prioritized and taken care of. They must not be compelled to perform manual labour to make a living since they are prone to physical and emotional exploitation. Sadly, the majority of poor nations are plagued by child labour and abuse.
Theme: “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour”
“Let’s act on our commitments: End Child Labour” is the theme of World Day Against Child Labour 2024. The International Labor Organization (ILO) is committed to ensuring that all children, particularly those at risk from child labour, have safe and healthy working conditions.
They are developing and implementing policies and programs that will support the transition to safe and healthy work for children. They are doing this by collaborating with governments, employers, civil society, and other partners.
History and Importance of World Day Against Child Labor
The International Labor Organization (ILO) celebrated the first World Day Against Child Labor on June 12, 2002, at its headquarters in Geneva, which had been established the day before. The purpose of World Day Against Child Labor is to promote and broaden the global call to end child labour.
The Indian central government has implemented a National Policy on Child Employment since 1987, which focuses on the rehabilitation of children and adolescents who have been exposed to employment. In addition, it addresses the underlying causes of poverty by assisting the families of victims in enhancing their economic prospects.
A Collective Effort to Protect Childhood
The observance of World Day Against Child Labor serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the rights and well-being of children worldwide. It highlights the need for concerted efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals to combat child labour and create a world where every child can experience a safe and nurturing childhood.