Every morning, millions of children across the world put on their school uniforms, pack their bags and head to class. But for millions of others, the day begins very differently. Instead of sitting in classrooms, they work in fields, factories, workshops, construction sites and homes, often for long hours and little pay.
On June 12, the world observes World Day Against Child Labour, an occasion established by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to raise awareness about the plight of children who are forced to work instead of enjoying their right to education, safety and a healthy childhood. While significant progress has been made over the past two decades, child labour remains one of the most pressing human rights challenges of our time.
According to the latest estimates released by the ILO and UNICEF, around 138 million children worldwide are engaged in child labour, with nearly 54 million involved in hazardous work that threatens their health, safety and development. The figures show improvement compared to previous decades, but they also highlight a sobering reality: millions of children continue to be deprived of opportunities that should be fundamental to every child.
Not all work done by children is considered child labour. Helping parents with household chores or assisting in a family business for a limited period does not necessarily harm a child. Child labour refers to work that interferes with a child's education, health, physical development or emotional well-being.
Children trapped in child labour often face dangerous conditions, long working hours and exploitation. Many are exposed to hazardous chemicals, heavy machinery, extreme weather conditions and physical abuse. Others work as domestic helpers behind closed doors, where abuse often goes unnoticed.
The impact can last a lifetime. Children who leave school to work are more likely to remain trapped in poverty as adults, creating a cycle that passes from one generation to the next.
Although child labour exists across the world, South Asia remains one of the regions most affected by the problem. Countries such as India, Bangladesh and Pakistan have made notable progress in reducing child labour, yet millions of children continue to work in informal and often dangerous sectors.
The reasons are complex. Poverty, lack of educational opportunities, migration, social inequality and weak enforcement of labour laws all contribute to the problem. In many low-income households, children's earnings help families meet their daily needs, making child labour a matter of survival rather than choice.
India has introduced several laws and welfare schemes aimed at protecting children and increasing school enrolment. However, child labour remains visible in many parts of the country.
Children can still be found working in roadside eateries, tea stalls, automobile workshops, brick kilns, textile units, agricultural fields and small manufacturing centres. Some work as domestic helpers in private homes, making it difficult for authorities to identify and rescue them.
Experts point out that child labour in India is often concentrated in the informal economy, where regulation and inspections are limited. Children from migrant families are particularly vulnerable because frequent movement disrupts their education and increases the likelihood of entering the workforce.
Economic hardship remains a key factor. Families struggling with debt, unemployment or rising living costs may depend on the income generated by their children. Although government programmes have helped improve school attendance, ensuring that children remain in education continues to be a challenge.
Bangladesh has earned international recognition for reducing poverty and improving educational access over the years. Nevertheless, child labour continues to affect thousands of children, particularly in informal sectors.
Many children work in small workshops, agriculture, domestic service and urban informal jobs. While reforms in the garment industry have improved conditions in larger factories, rights groups continue to raise concerns about hidden forms of child labour operating outside formal supply chains.
Rapid urbanisation has also contributed to the issue. Families migrating to cities in search of employment often face financial instability, pushing children into work. In such situations, education becomes secondary to survival.
Advocates argue that stronger social protection programmes and improved access to quality schooling are essential to preventing children from entering the workforce.
Pakistan continues to face significant challenges in tackling child labour. Children are frequently employed in agriculture, brick kilns, workshops and domestic work. In many cases, entire families work together under difficult conditions. Human rights organisations have repeatedly highlighted concerns about bonded labour and the exploitation of children in industries where oversight is weak.
Child domestic workers are among the most vulnerable. Working inside private homes often leaves them isolated from support systems and exposed to abuse. Many of these children are unable to continue their education, limiting their opportunities later in life.
Despite legislative efforts and awareness campaigns, enforcement remains uneven, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.
The persistence of child labour cannot be explained by a single factor. Poverty remains the primary driver, but several interconnected issues contribute to the problem.
Limited access to education is one of the most important factors. When schools are distant, underfunded or unaffordable, children are more likely to enter the workforce. Economic shocks such as unemployment, inflation, natural disasters and conflicts also increase vulnerability. Families facing sudden financial crises may see child labour as a coping mechanism.
Employers sometimes prefer child workers because they can be paid lower wages and are less likely to challenge poor working conditions. This demand creates opportunities for exploitation and perpetuates the problem.
Social attitudes can also play a role. In some communities, children's work is viewed as normal or necessary, particularly when families have limited economic options.
The consequences of child labour extend beyond the individual child. Children who miss out on education often struggle to secure stable employment as adults, increasing the likelihood of remaining in poverty.
Hazardous work can cause permanent physical injuries, chronic health problems and psychological trauma. The emotional impact of exploitation can affect children long after they leave the workforce.
Societies also suffer. Every child denied an education represents lost potential. Economists and development experts have long argued that investing in children's education generates long-term benefits for communities and national economies.
Simply put, child labour is not only a human rights issue9; it is also a barrier to sustainable development.
Sources: International Labour Organization (ILO), UNICEF Global Estimates on Child Labour, United Nations World Day Against Child Labour resources.