Despite progress, child labour still affects 138 million children globally

Source: The Labour Spokesman

Child labour still affects about 138 million children around the world, with 54 million doing dangerous work that harms their health or development.

A new report from the ILO and UNICEF shows some progress, as the number has dropped by over 22 million since 2020. However, the goal to end child labour by 2025 has not been met. Most child labour happens in farming, followed by services like domestic work and selling in markets, and then in industries like mining. Asia and Latin America have made progress, but Sub-Saharan Africa still has the highest number of children in labour.

Poverty, lack of education, and weak social protection push families to rely on their children for help. Boys are more likely to be in paid labour, but girls often do heavy household chores.

The ILO and UNICEF are urging governments to support families with child benefits, improve education and protection systems, ensure decent jobs for adults, and enforce laws that stop child labour. Without strong and steady action, too many children will continue to work instead of learning and enjoying their childhood.

Reference: June 16, 2025
https://thelabourspokesman.com/despite-progress-child-labour-still-affects-138-million-children-globally/