KARACHI:
Across the country, child labour is running rampant, and millions of children can be found working at workshops, restaurants, factories, as domestic servants, etc. According to the United Nations (UN), children employed under the age of 18 would fall under the definition of child labour. It is a form of child maltreatment and violates the rights and freedoms of children. Due to abject poverty, high inflation, and unemployment, many children have been forced into child labour in Pakistan. These children face a serious threat to their physical and mental health and overall wellbeing.
They are burdened with tiresome tasks and receive a meagre amount of money for it, which they usually give to their families. Most children are subjected to different forms of abuse, which leaves them traumatised for most of their lives. They do not receive any form of support or protection from the state or non-governmental organisations. Unfortunately, most children engaged in child labour have little to no chance of improving social mobility as they fail to acquire education and find themselves stuck in poverty even at an older age. In some cases, children are abducted by traffickers and forced into labour.
Children’s emotional development is affected as they do not have time to play or interact with others their age and usually mature earlier because of their harsh circumstances. Although several amendments banning child labour have been passed, little has changed. The amendments must be rigorously implemented. A more effective way to deal with child labour is through a widespread campaign discouraging people from employing young children. Also, greater emphasis on secondary education for all children will help curb this menace.
Usama Mahar
Sukkur
Published in The Express Tribune, March 30th, 2022.
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