World Day Against Child Labour 2024: A Call to End Child Labour

June 12 marks the annual observance of World Day Against Child Labour, a day dedicated to catalyzing the expanding global movement against child labour. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of focusing on the core causes of child labour and recognizing the interconnectedness between social justice and child work to eradicate child labour effectively.

Children should grow up in environments that foster their health and development, free from the burden of manual labour for survival. Unfortunately, child labour and abuse remain prevalent, especially in many impoverished nations, where children are vulnerable to physical and emotional harm.

Theme for 2024: "Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour!"

The theme for World Day Against Child Labour 2024 is "Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour!" This year’s observance is particularly significant as it marks the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Worst Forms of Child Labour. It also serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to enhance their efforts in implementing the two main Conventions on Child Labour: Convention No. 182, concerning the worst forms of child labour, and Convention No. 138, regarding the minimum age for admission to employment or work.

Despite considerable progress in reducing child labour over the years, recent global trends have shown a reversal, highlighting the urgent need for a renewed and intensified commitment to eradicating child labour in all its forms.

History and Significance

The first World Day Against Child Labour was observed on June 12, 2002, by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) at its headquarters in Geneva, following its establishment the previous day. This day was created to amplify the global call to end child labour and to promote awareness and action against this pressing issue.

Since 1987, India has implemented a National Policy on Child Employment, aimed at the rehabilitation of children and adolescents exposed to employment. This policy also addresses the root causes of poverty by assisting the families of affected children in improving their economic prospects.

Famous Quotes On World Day Against Child Labour:

“Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man.” – Rabindranath Tagore.
“Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.” – A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
“Safety and security don’t just happen; they are the result of collective consensus and public investment.” – Nelson Mandela.
“Some girls cannot go to school because of the child labour and child trafficking.” – Malala Yousafzai.
“You can’t regulate child labour. You can’t regulate slavery. Some things are just wrong.” – Michael Moore.