The child labor, a grave concern that deprives children of their rightful childhood and hinders their educational and overall development, continues to plague our global society. It encompasses work that is not only exploitative and hazardous, but also violates the basic human rights of innocent children.
The issue of child labor is intricate and deeply rooted in a multitude of social, economic, and cultural factors. Poverty, limited access to education, societal perceptions of children’s roles, and inadequate legal safeguards are among the contributing elements. Moreover, child labor predominantly thrives in unregulated sectors like domestic work and agriculture, making it a challenge to identify and combat.
The child labor has far-reaching detrimental consequences on children’s health, education, and future prospects, rendering it a critical concern in terms of global development and human rights.
Significant strides have been made in recent years to address child labor in the province of Punjab.
The government conducted a comprehensive survey in 2019-20, shedding light on the living conditions and daily activities of children and adolescents in the region. The survey, encompassing 35,818,724 children aged 5-17, offers invaluable insights into their schooling, work, household chores, and leisure activities.
In line with its commitment to combat child labor, the Punjab government reemphasized its dedication through the Punjab Labour Policy 2018. The policy embraces a holistic and multidimensional approach to tackling the economic exploitation of children. Notably, the Labour Department initiated a pilot project in Muzaffargarh, focusing on disengaging child laborers and facilitating their enrollment in mainstream schools.
Effectively addressing the root causes of child labor, such as poverty and lack of access to education, necessitates the implementation of policies and programs that promote economic growth, reduce inequality, and enhance educational opportunities for all children.
To curtail child labor in Punjab, it is crucial to strengthen legal protections and ensure their diligent enforcement. This entails allocating more resources for labor inspections, improving coordination among government agencies, and fostering awareness among employers and communities regarding the perils of child labor. Moreover, tackling the underlying causes requires comprehensive measures, including poverty alleviation, enhanced educational access, and skill development opportunities for children.
Revitalizing the provincial committee on child labor, as mandated by Section 4 of the have endured.
The fight against child labor and its deep-rooted connection with child abuse demands urgent attention and concerted efforts from all sectors of society. Special legislative reforms are imperative to prevent and respond to child abuse effectively, particularly among children engaged in domestic labor. Let us unite in our resolve to protect the rights, well-being, and future of our children, for they are the building blocks of a just and prosperous society
