UN Highlights the Need for Immediate Action Against Child Labor
In recognition of World Day Against Child Labor, celebrated on June 12, the Director General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, has made a passionate appeal for urgent mobilization to eradicate a persistent issue affecting tens of millions of children globally. In a powerful video message delivered for this occasion, he revealed that nearly 138 million children are still engaged in child labor, with 54 million of these children exposed to hazardous work conditions. He emphasized the unacceptable nature of this situation, stating, "We must accelerate action to address this crisis."
Despite some advancements in recent years, millions of children remain deprived of their fundamental rights to education, play, and a safe childhood. The dangerous work many of these children are forced into jeopardizes their health, development, and future prospects. This year's global campaign is themed: "Red Card to Child Labor: Protecting Childhood, Ensuring Decent Work for Adults." According to the ILO chief, this slogan serves as a reminder that every child has the right to learn, play, and grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
A New Roadmap Adopted in Marrakech
The ILO's call for action comes just months after the sixth Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labor, held in Marrakech, Morocco. This significant meeting resulted in the adoption of the Marrakech Global Action Framework against Child Labor, which is being described as a roadmap designed to accelerate progress toward eliminating child labor. Mr. Houngbo highlighted that this framework is built on several essential pillars, including decent work for parents, quality universal education, strengthened social protection systems, and more effective laws and institutions. For the first time, this framework includes clear indicators to measure progress and a accountability mechanism to monitor its implementation.
For the ILO, the year 2026 marks a pivotal moment in the fight against child labor. Beyond mere declarations of intent, the focus is now on translating the commitments made in Marrakech into tangible changes that benefit children, families, and communities. The organization is calling on governments, employers, workers, businesses, and civil society to join forces to tackle the root causes of child labor, which include poverty, social exclusion, and lack of access to education. "Together, let us act with urgency and determination to end child labor," concluded Gilbert F. Houngbo.
As reported by news.un.org.
