World Day Against Child Labor
Addressing the impact of underage employment on youth, fostering awareness for a brighter future without exploitation.
It’s hard to imagine in the modern world that, instead of going to school or being cared for by their families, children are sent to work every day in factories, mines, or other harsh environments. Many more children are recruited into armed conflict, forced into drug trafficking, prostitution or other illicit activities.
Each year, hundreds of millions of boys and girls all over the world are involved in work that prevents them from experiencing some of the basic rights of childhood which include education, play, adequate rest, mental health and more. World Day Against Child Labor works to shed light on and increase public awareness about the plight of these children with the purpose of ending these forms of child abuse and neglect.
History of World Day Against Child Labor
The inaugural celebration of the World Day Against Child Labor took place in 2002 when it was established through the efforts of the International Labour Organization (ILO), which is the body of the United Nations that regulates work. The day was founded with the purpose of raising awareness about and fighting together against the exploitative practices of child labor.
The hope behind World Day Against Child Labor is to bring together governments, civil society, local authorities, employee and worker organizations and other interest groups to help define guidelines for child labor and also work toward putting an end to it. While the efforts over recent years have positively resulted in reduced incidences of child labor, there is still a long way to go!
How to Celebrate World Day Against Child Labor
Looking for ideas on how to get involved and participate in World Day Against Child Labor? Start with some of these ideas:
Take Action Against Child Labor
People in places where child labor is less likely may not realize that they can still make an impact. One of the best ways to do this is for business and consumers to be educated about the practices of the companies they purchase from. Businesses can follow best practices to rid their supply chains of child labor and consumers can refuse to purchase from companies who don’t.
In honor of World Day Against Child Labor, get informed by learning which products and goods are likely produced by child labor. It might also be good to find out which companies might deserve a well-crafted letter on why they’ll be boycotted until they end these horrible practices.
Raise Awareness About Child Labor
Many people simply aren’t aware or turn a blind eye to the practices of child labor. World Day Against Child Labor is a perfect opportunity to show support and raise awareness as individuals, groups or companies. Share information, statistics, and facts about how to help with coworkers, family members or on social media. Remember that people working together can make a larger impact than those on their own!
Make a Donation to End Child Labor
Those who want to do more to reduce child labor can involved by making a donation or volunteering with a charity. World Day Against Child Labor acts as an ideal reminder to support organizations such as Save the Children, the International Initiative to End Child Labor, UNICEF and more.
