Problems and Challenges Associated With Child Labor

Terry Baudoui^*
*Correspondence: Dr. Terry Baudoui, Department of Economics, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland, Email:

Description

The phrase "child labor" is frequently defined as employment that prevents children of their youth, potential, and dignity, and is destructive to their physical and mental development. It means employment that is intellectually, physically, socially, and morally hazardous to children. It interferes with their education by denying them the chance to attend school, forcing them to leave school early, or compelling them to combine school attendance with excessively lengthy and heavy work. The statistics estimates for child laborers across the globe vary due to variances in defining age groups and the involvement of children in the official and informal sectors. Children are the nation's future citizens, and their proper development is the country's main priority. Unfortunately, child labor is a global problem that affects children all over the world. Nonetheless, even though it is a threat in numerous forms, data reveals that the frequency of child labor varies around the globe, and the statistical numbers on child labor are quite concerning. Globally, there are an estimated 186 million child laborers. Even though the Indian Constitution provides compulsory education to all children aged 6 to 14, and restricts the employment of children under the age of 14, child labor is common in the Indian economy's informal sectors. Child work is a violation of human rights and a violation of the international labor organization (article 32, convention rights of the child). One-third of developing-world youngsters do not finish even four years of schooling. In India, more than 17.5 million children work in various industries, agriculture, leather, mining etc. Children may be forced to labor for a variety of reasons. Child labor is most common when families experience financial difficulties or uncertainty, whether as a result of poverty, a caregiver's unexpected illness, or the loss of a major pay earner's employment. The consequences are enormous. Child labor can result in severe physical and emotional suffering, while also death. It has the potential to result in slavery and also sexual or financial exploitation. In almost every case, it denies children access to school and health care, restricting their fundamental rights and risking their futures. Migrant and refugee children, who are relocated by violence, catastrophe, or poverty, are also in danger of being pressured to labor and even trafficking, particularly if they are moving alone or via illegal routes with their family. Children who are trapped in trafficking are frequently subjected to assault, abuse, and other abuses of their human rights. Some may even be forced to breach the law. The possibility of sexual exploitation remains high for females and boys may be exploited by military forces or groups. The harmful influence on children's physiological and psychological levels includes specific worries about child work and its effects on mental health. It is worth remembering that one-third of developing-world youngsters do not finish even four years of schooling. The study of the elements that contribute to children's involvement in risky activities identified socioeconomic issues as one of the most important drivers. Poverty is one of the elements that contribute to child labor. The Indian government has taken many steps to eliminate child labor. The National Child Work Project (NCLP) Scheme was started in nine regions across the country with a high prevalence of child labor. The initiative provides cash to district collectors for the operation of special schools for child laborers. The majority of these schools are administered by Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the district. These youngsters receive formal/informal education, vocational training, and a monthly stipend of rupees 100 under the initiative. They are also given a health check-up.

Conclusion

Poverty is a significant contributor to this issue. As a result, implementing it alone will not address the problem. The government has placed a high priority on the rehabilitation of these youngsters and the improvement of their families' economic circumstances. Many Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as care India, child rights, global march against child labor, and others have been trying to eliminate child labor in India. Child labor may be eliminated if knowledge is turned into legislation and action, directing good intentions and ideas toward preserving children's health. Young children have more endurance and are unable to oppose prejudice. Focusing on taking initiatives to rally communities against child labor, and reintegrating child workers into their homes and schools, has been critical in breaking the cycle of child labor. To eliminate this issue, a multidisciplinary strategy is required combining professionals at the medical, psychological, and socio-anthropological levels.