Christ (Deemed to be University)
Business Communication
CIA 3
Topic: Child Labour
Submitted By: Dhruva Ranjan (22212222)
Submitted To: Mr. Benzigar M.
Table of Contents:
1. Introduction
2. Current Scenario
3. Causes of Child Labour
4. Consequences of Child Labour
5. Efforts to address Child Labour
6. Conclusion
Introduction
Child labour is a persistent problem in many parts of the world. It refers to the
employment of children in work that deprives them of their childhood, their
potential and their dignity, and that is harmful to their physical and mental
development. Child labour is a complex issue, driven by factors such as
poverty, lack of education, and cultural practices. This report will evaluate the
current situation of child labour, its causes, and its consequences.
Current Situation of Child Labour
According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), there are
approximately 152 million children worldwide involved in child labour. This
includes children between the ages of 5 and 17 who are engaged in work that is
physically or mentally harmful, interferes with their schooling, or is
exploitative. The majority of child labourers are in the agriculture sector,
followed by the services and industry sectors.
While the global number of child labourers has decreased over the past two
decades, progress has been slow. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has
further exacerbated the problem, with school closures and economic disruptions
leading to an increase in child labour.
Causes of Child Labour
Child labour is driven by a complex set of factors, including poverty, lack of
education, and cultural practices. In many parts of the world, families rely on
the income generated by their children to survive. Children may be forced to
work to help support their families, particularly in situations where parents are
ill or have died.
Lack of education is also a significant driver of child labour. Children who are
not in school are more likely to be involved in labour, particularly in areas
where there are few educational opportunities. Cultural practices, such as the
use of child labour in traditional crafts or agriculture, can also contribute to the
problem.
Consequences of Child Labour
Child labour has significant negative consequences for children, including
physical and mental harm, deprivation of education, and perpetuation of the
cycle of poverty. Children who work are more likely to experience injuries,
illness, and long-term health problems. They are also less likely to attend school
and are more likely to drop out early, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and
limiting their potential for economic and social mobility.
In addition, child labour can have negative consequences for society as a whole.
Children who are forced to work are not able to contribute to their full potential
to society, and their lack of education can limit the potential for economic
growth and development.
Efforts to Address Child Labour
Efforts to address child labour have been ongoing for many years, with the ILO
and other organizations leading the way. The ILO has developed a series of
conventions and recommendations related to child labour, including the
Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Worst Forms of Child Labour
Convention. These conventions call for the abolition of child labour and the
protection of children from exploitation.
In addition, many organizations and governments have developed programs
aimed at addressing the root causes of child labour. These programs include
initiatives to improve access to education, promote economic development, and
provide social protection for vulnerable families. Some companies have also
taken steps to address child labour in their supply chains, by implementing
codes of conduct and monitoring their suppliers for compliance.
Conclusion
Child labour is a complex and persistent problem that requires a multifaceted
approach to address. While progress has been made in reducing the number of
child labourers, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for continued
attention and action. Efforts to address the root causes of child labour, including
poverty and lack of education, must be a priority, as well as efforts to enforce
regulations and protect children from exploitation. The negative consequences
of child labour are significant, not only for the children involved but for society
as a whole. It is therefore essential that we continue to work towards the goal of
eliminating child labour and ensuring that all children are able to live a
dignified life.
