A childhood denied: Confronting child labour in Pakistan

Child labour in Pakistan remains a significant issue, with over 12.5 million children aged 5 to 14 involved in various sectors, predominantly in rural agriculture and urban workshops. These children face hazardous work conditions, often at the expense of their education and health. Despite national laws and international conventions aiming to curb child labour, socio-economic factors, cultural norms, and weak enforcement mechanisms continue to sustain the practice. The article emphasizes that addressing child labour requires a multi-faceted approach, including stricter laws, public awareness campaigns, and economic programs to support vulnerable families.

Overview

This article, authored by Dr. Zafar Khan Safdar, examines the persistent problem of child labour in Pakistan, highlighting how poverty, cultural acceptance, and lack of enforcement keep children in exploitative conditions. It also compares Pakistan’s efforts with other South Asian countries and suggests comprehensive actions to alleviate the issue, from improving educational access to implementing stricter monitoring and enforcement.

NOTES

• Child Rights and Labour Laws: Relevant to Pakistan Affairs and Governance, examining Pakistan’s legal framework.
• Comparative Analysis with South Asia: Useful for International Relations, understanding regional child labour trends.
• Economic and Social Development: Linked to Public Administration and Economics, focusing on poverty alleviation and family support systems.

Relevant CSS Topics

• Pakistan Affairs (child labour issues, rural-urban disparities)
• Governance (policy enforcement, social welfare)
• Sociology (poverty and child exploitation)
• International Relations (comparative study of South Asia’s approach)

Notes for Beginners with Examples and Facts

For beginners, it’s essential to note that child labour is driven by poverty, with families relying on children’s earnings. For instance, children in rural areas often work in fields, while those in cities may be found in brick kilns or workshops. Globally, South Asia reports high child labour rates, with 152 million children engaged in child labour worldwide. Comparatively, Sri Lanka has reduced its child labour rates through robust social programs and education, a potential model for Pakistan.

To wrap up, Eliminating child labour in Pakistan requires a united front involving government agencies, communities, NGOs, and families. Strengthening legal protections and providing educational and economic opportunities for low-income families can pave the way toward a child-friendly society where all children have the opportunity to learn and thrive.

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