The Scourge of Child Labor: What You Need to Know

Why do children work?

The causes of child labor, especially outside the United States and other developing countries, often come from deep-rooted issues:

1. Poverty: This is often the most significant reason. In rural areas where food insecurity is rampant, families often don't have access to clean water or stable income sources. Children, in their quest to support their family members, are compelled to work. Such circumstances lead to a rising number of children living in poverty, missing out on attending school, and being thrust into the labor force at tender ages.
2. Educational Barriers: Lack of quality education plays a massive role. In many places, schools are either non-existent or are too expensive for families already grappling with food insecurity. When attending school becomes a challenge, work becomes the alternative. This not only perpetuates the cycle of poverty but also robs children of their potential future. An uneducated child grows into an adult with limited opportunities, often continuing the cycle with their own children.
3. Societal Norms: Societal norms and expectations play a more significant role than one might think. In many cultures, there's an unspoken rule: children follow in a family member's footsteps from a young age. This might mean diving into domestic work, assisting in agricultural tasks, or apprenticing in traditional crafts. These roles, while culturally significant, often don't prioritize the child's well-being or education. The worst forms of child labor, unfortunately, are sometimes normalized or overlooked due to these deep-rooted traditions.
4. Lack of Awareness: Many people don't know the worst forms of child labor. They might not understand how harmful it is, thinking they're doing what's best for their child. For example, some children face the worst form of exploitation, like trafficking or forced labor.