Abolition of child labor

Definition

The abolition of child labor refers to the legal and social movement aimed at ending the employment of children in work that deprives them of their childhood, education, and potential. This movement emerged in response to the exploitative practices during the Industrial Revolution and has led to international laws and regulations that seek to protect children from harmful labor conditions and ensure their right to education.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The abolition of child labor gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as reformers highlighted the negative impact of child labor on children's health and development.
2. Key legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act in the U.S. established minimum age requirements for employment and restricted working hours for minors.
3. International efforts like ILO Convention No. 138 set the minimum age for employment at 15 years, with provisions for developing countries allowing a minimum age of 14 under certain conditions.
4. The movement emphasizes not only the prohibition of child labor but also the need for accessible education to provide children with opportunities for a better future.
5. Despite progress, child labor still exists in various forms around the world, particularly in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, highlighting ongoing challenges in enforcement and compliance.

Review Questions

• How did the industrial revolution contribute to the rise of child labor and subsequently influence its abolition?
  • The industrial revolution created a high demand for cheap labor, leading many factories to employ children who could work long hours for low wages. The harsh working conditions faced by these children sparked public outrage and highlighted the need for reform. This backlash eventually led to movements advocating for the abolition of child labor, resulting in legislative changes aimed at protecting children’s rights and improving their living conditions.
• Discuss the role of international organizations in advancing the abolition of child labor.
  • International organizations, particularly the International Labour Organization (ILO), have played a crucial role in establishing global standards against child labor. The ILO develops conventions that set minimum age requirements for employment and promotes initiatives that help countries implement laws protecting children. These efforts include awareness campaigns and providing resources for education, which are essential in reducing child labor practices worldwide.
• Evaluate the impact of abolishing child labor on both children’s rights and broader social development.
  • The abolition of child labor has significantly improved children's rights by ensuring they have access to education and safe environments conducive to their growth. By removing children from exploitative work, societies can invest in their future through education, which enhances overall economic development. Additionally, as more children attend school rather than work, communities benefit from a more educated workforce capable of contributing positively to economic progress, creating a cycle of improvement that affects future generations.

Related terms

Child Rights: A set of legal, civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights that children are entitled to, emphasizing their protection and development.

Labor Standards: Regulations and policies that establish the minimum acceptable conditions for workers, including age restrictions and safety measures.

International Labour Organization (ILO): A United Nations agency that sets international labor standards and promotes decent work for all, including initiatives to combat child labor.