Children in poor countries work in a variety of conditions in the searing heat and the billowing smoke from brick kilns, underscoring the widespread problem of child labour. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that 160 million youngsters work as forced laborers worldwide, 76 million of whom are employed in dangerous jobs. The issue is getting worse, especially in emerging nations where it affects people’s present and future.
Child labour impedes a country’s potential advancement in addition to endangering the welfare of the children involved. It is impossible to exaggerate the value of education for young people since a nation’s progress depends on having an informed and capable younger population. Unfortunately, socioeconomic factors often force many children in less developed countries—including Pakistan—to enter the workforce at an early age. Child labour in Pakistan is a historical and cultural phenomenon that is made worse by poverty, a lack of opportunities, education, knowledge, and outmoded social standards. The nation’s uneven political reforms have made for a faulty democracy that further marginalizes the poor. Child labour is encouraged by the widening income disparity caused by the rise in poverty.
Economic issues are a major contributing factor to Pakistan’s high rate of child labor. Children are forced to labour due to the nation’s economic instability and high unemployment rates, which are especially severe in urban areas. The situation is made worse by income inequality, as the wealthiest 10% of households earn a disproportionate amount in comparison to the poorest 50%.
Child labour is mostly caused by socioeconomic factors, such as a patriarchal social structure, population growth, and a dire education deficit. Children who put employment above learning are further perpetuating the cycle due to illiteracy, particularly in rural areas. Because of the strain that population growth places on household incomes, many families turn to child labour to meet their requirements. Another layer to the problem is the widespread practice of bonded labour throughout South Asia, especially in Pakistan. South Asia is home to more than 85% of the 20 million individuals who are victims of bonded labour worldwide. This exploitative system creates a debt cycle that can last for generations by forcing people and their families into service. Child labour is still a major issue in Pakistan, despite legislative initiatives like the Employment of Children Act and the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act. Along with depriving kids of their rights and education, it also has significant negative effects on the political, social, and economic spheres. A multifaceted strategy that addresses the underlying causes, promotes education, and guarantees the efficient enforcement of anti-child labour laws is needed to address this complicated issue.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad
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views expressed are writer’s own.
