Islamabad: On the occasion of World Day Against Child Labour, Pakistan emphasized its dedication to protecting children from exploitation and promoting education as a path to a brighter future. The observance this year is themed “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults.”

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), around 138 million children globally are involved in child labour, with approximately 54 million engaged in hazardous work. The eradication of child labour is seen as essential for national development and social justice. Pakistan has ratified relevant ILO Conventions and is implementing a strategy focused on legislative reforms, enforcement, social protection, education, and economic empowerment to combat child labour.

The government highlights the role of the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) and various provincial and federal institutions in monitoring children’s rights and supporting vulnerable children. Efforts include legal measures and the establishment of specialized units for child labour cases. Social protection programmes, such as the Waseela-e-Taleem initiative and Child Labour Schools, aim to address poverty, a key driver of child labour.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif calls for collective action from all sectors to ensure a future where every child is educated and empowered.