What is Child Labour?

Child labour refers to work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity, and is harmful to their physical and mental development. It is often illegal, exploitative, and robs them of a basic human right—education.

Causes of Child Labour

Several factors contribute to child labour:

  • Poverty: Families living in extreme poverty may depend on their children’s earnings for survival.

  • Lack of education: In many areas, there are few schools or the education system is weak, pushing children toward work.

  • Cultural beliefs: In some communities, child work is seen as normal or necessary.

  • Cheap labour demand: Industries may prefer hiring children as they are paid less and are easier to exploit.

Effects of Child Labour

Child labour has long-term negative effects on the child and society:

  • Physical harm: Many jobs children are forced into are dangerous and can cause serious injuries or illness.

  • Mental trauma: Long hours, abuse, and lack of care lead to stress, anxiety, and emotional scars.

  • Lost education: Children who work miss out on school, limiting their future opportunities.

  • Cycle of poverty: Without education, children grow into adults with limited skills, continuing the cycle of poverty.

How Can We Stop It?

  1. Education for All: Governments and communities must ensure that every child has access to free and quality education.

  2. Strict Laws and Enforcement: Strong laws banning child labour must be implemented and monitored strictly.

  3. Support for Families: Providing financial help, jobs, and social welfare to poor families can reduce their need to send children to work.

  4. Awareness Campaigns: Society must be educated to understand the harm of child labour and the value of a child’s education.

  5. Lets give an example of Kailash Sathyarthi he was the one who conducted this movement No Child Labour he stood for it made speeches everywhere around India an started to gain peoples trust and this India is much better much advanced and is not like before.