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New Delhi: Children are the future of any nation — innocent, precious and full of potential. They are like delicate gems that must be nurtured, not burdened. Yet, the harsh reality of child labour continues to haunt us. These young souls are forced into a life they never chose, made to work when they should be learning, dreaming, and growing.

Whether we see them at traffic signals or hear stories of children toiling in fields and factories, it leaves a deep ache in the heart. To raise awareness and protect their rights, the world comes together every year on June 12 to observe the World Day Against Child Labour — a reminder that childhood should never be lost to labour.

Let’s read on to learn more about its history and the importance of the day.

World Day Against Child Labour: History and Importance

The World Day Against Child Labour started in 2002 and was created by the International Labour Organisation (ILO). Its goal is to keep attention on child labour and to update strategies to eliminate it. Every year, on June 12, we observe this day.

In 2021, the United Nations General Assembly recognised the seriousness of child labour. It declared it the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour, asking the ILO to lead the effort.

This day brings together governments, local authorities, civil groups, and organisations of workers and employers to highlight the issue of child labour and to set guidelines to help affected children.

According to the ILO, hundreds of millions of children worldwide work in ways that deny them access to education, healthcare, free time, and basic rights. More than half of these children endure the worst forms of child labour.

These include work in dangerous conditions, slavery, forced labour, drug trafficking, prostitution and involvement in armed conflict.

The World Day Against Child Labour aims to raise awareness about child labour and find ways to end it. This day focuses on the harmful mental and physical effects faced by children forced into work around the world.

What is the theme for this year’s World Day Against Child Labour? Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up efforts!

The 2025 World Day Against Child Labour will emphasise a significant event: the release of global estimates and trends on child labour. This report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF will provide a clear view of how the world is doing in the fight against child labour. While specific data are not yet available, the identified trends will help shape discussions and encourage renewed commitment and investment.

On this World Day, the ILO urges all countries to ratify ILO Convention No. 138 on the Minimum Age fully and to enforce ILO Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour. Effectively ratifying and implementing these conventions is crucial for achieving the goals set by the Durban Call to Action, which emphasises the need for improved prevention, protection, and partnerships to eradicate child labour.

Now is the time to make the elimination of child labour a reality.

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Source: United Nations