World Day Against Child Labour 2024: Date, Theme, Origin, and Significance
Observance Date and Theme
World Day Against Child Labour is observed annually on June 12th, and in 2024, it falls on a Wednesday. This year’s theme, “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour,” calls for collective action to eradicate child labour and protect children from exploitation. It encourages governments, employers, workers, civil society, and individuals to unite in creating a world free from child labour.
Origin and Significance
The significance of World Day Against Child Labour lies in its ability to highlight and amplify the global call to stop child labour. Initiated by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), this day serves as a powerful reminder of the plight of millions of children forced into work, often at the expense of their education and well-being.
In India, the Constitution explicitly prohibits children under the age of 14 from working in mines, factories, or hazardous occupations. Similarly, the ILO defines a child as anyone below the age of 18 who should not be involved in hazardous work. These laws aim to protect children from exploitation and ensure their right to a safe and nurturing childhood.
Progress and Challenges
While significant progress has been made in reducing child labour over the years, the recent reversal of global trends highlights the urgent need for renewed efforts. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, providing an opportunity to reflect on achievements and intensify efforts to eliminate child labour.
The Indian central government has been proactive since 1987 with its National Policy on Child Employment, focusing on rehabilitating children exposed to employment and addressing the root causes of poverty by improving economic opportunities for affected families.
Quotes to Inspire Action
Here are some inspiring quotes to share on World Day Against Child Labour:
- “Children should have pens in their hands, not tools.” – Kailash Satyarthi
- “Every child deserves a childhood free from exploitation and abuse.” – Malala Yousafzai
- “The only way to end child labour is to ensure that all children have access to education and opportunities.” – ILO Director-General
- “Child labour perpetuates poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, population growth, and other social problems.” – Kailash Satyarthi
- “There is no justification for child labour. The child is the future of our nation. Let us allow him to develop physically, mentally, and morally.” – Mahatma Gandhi
- “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than how it treats its children.” – Nelson Mandela
World Day Against Child Labour 2024 is a call to action for everyone to contribute to ending child labour. By understanding its significance, supporting legislative measures, and spreading awareness, we can collectively ensure that children are shielded from exploitation and provided with the education and opportunities they deserve.