Millions of children around the world continue to be deprived of their education, health and childhood as they remain trapped in child labor, according to international labor organizations marking World Day Against Child Labor on 12 June.
The annual observance, established by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in 2002, aims to raise awareness of child labor and mobilize efforts to eliminate the practice in all its forms.
According to the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), an estimated 138 million children worldwide are still engaged in child labor, despite progress made in recent years to reduce the number.
In a message marking the occasion, the global trade union body warned that millions of children continue to face hazardous working conditions and called for stronger action from governments and employers.
“Time for action, not empty statements,” the organization said.
The ITUC said greater investment in education, social protection, and decent employment for adults was needed to address the underlying causes that force many children into work.
The organization also urged governments to honor international commitments aimed at protecting children’s rights and ending child labor. According to the ITUC, eliminating child labor requires coordinated efforts involving governments, employers, workers’ organizations and civil society.
The International Labor Organization says World Day Against Child Labor serves as an opportunity to focus global attention on the millions of children whose development and well-being are threatened by exploitative work. The agency said the observance seeks to encourage practical measures to ensure children have access to education and a safe environment in which to grow and thrive.
The campaign comes as international organizations continue to push for accelerated action to meet global targets on ending child labor and safeguarding the rights of children.
For labor advocates, the message this year is clear: while progress has been made, much work remains to ensure that every child is free from exploitation and able to enjoy a healthy and secure future.