Child Labor and the Forgotten Dream of Childhood

According to the Public Relations and Website Office of Khatam University, based on the definition of the International Labour Organization (ILO), child labor refers to work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity, and that interferes with their education or is harmful to their physical, mental, social, or moral development. Such forms of labor are prohibited under national and international legislation. However, not all work performed by children is classified as child labor. Certain activities—such as participation in artistic performances, age-appropriate household responsibilities, supervised vocational training, and some forms of work undertaken within specific cultural or community contexts—may be permitted, provided they do not endanger the child's well-being or hinder educational development.

Various factors contribute to child labor, including family structure, poverty, sudden economic changes resulting from war, the cost of education, and ineffective educational systems. Child labor is generally the product of inefficient and unjust socio-economic structures. Children are often forced into difficult labor to support themselves and their families due to economic hardship, neglect, orphanhood, parental addiction, illness or disability, imprisonment, death, divorce, or other family-related problems.

Around the world, many children are engaged in domestic work, either paid or unpaid, in their own homes or in the homes of third parties and employers. These children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation. Their work is often hidden from public view, they may become socially isolated, and in many cases, they live away from their homes and families. Abuse and mistreatment of children engaged in domestic labor remain a harsh reality and, unfortunately, are widespread.

Because of their limited access to education, child laborers are frequently deprived of opportunities for personal development and social advancement. Education—especially vocational and skills training—is one of the most effective means of empowering these children and ensuring a brighter future. Such training can reduce their dependence on inappropriate forms of work, promote financial independence, improve self-esteem and self-confidence, and lower the risk of returning to street labor. At the same time, it helps protect society from the negative consequences of child labor. Supporting working children through educational opportunities is a responsibility shared by governments, civil society organizations, and all members of society.

Since 2002, the ILO has focused global attention on the extent of child labor and the efforts required to eliminate it. Accordingly, June 12 has been designated as the World Day Against Child Labour. This initiative followed the adoption of ILO Convention No. 138 on the Minimum Age for Employment and ILO Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour. The purpose of the observance is to raise awareness, encourage action to prevent child labor, and strengthen global movements dedicated to its eradication. Achieving these goals requires the cooperation of governments, employers, workers’ organizations, civil society, and millions of people worldwide in order to implement effective measures to support child workers and eliminate child labor.