Statement in Support of the Global Campaign Against Child Labor
June 7, 2023

Human Rights Online Philippines (HROnlinePH), a network of human rights defenders working online for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines, joins hands with human rights organizations, social activists, and child rights advocates around the world to express our unwavering support for the global campaign against child labor.

Child labor is a grave violation of human rights that affects millions of children worldwide. It denies children their right to a childhood, to education, to play, and to grow into healthy, well-rounded individuals. Instead, they are subjected to hazardous working conditions, exploitation, and a loss of opportunities that hinder their overall development.

The eradication of child labor is not just a moral imperative; it is a critical step toward building a just and equitable society. Children are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of our world, and it is our responsibility to provide them with an environment that nurtures their growth and ensures their rights are protected.

We call upon governments, civil society organizations, businesses, communities, and individuals to unite in the global fight against child labor. Together, we can create a world where children are free from the burdens of labor, where they can pursue their dreams, and where their rights are upheld.

HROnlinePH puts forward the following recommendations:

a. Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Governments must enact and enforce robust legislation that prohibits child labor in all its forms. These laws should provide comprehensive protection for children, ensuring that they are safeguarded from exploitation and granted access to quality education and a safe environment.
b. Promoting Education: Education is a fundamental right that must be accessible to all children. Governments and stakeholders should invest in quality education systems that are inclusive, free from discrimination, and tailored to the specific needs of vulnerable children. Education plays a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering children to reach their full potential.
c. Intensifying Awareness and Advocacy: Raising awareness about the issue of child labor is crucial in mobilizing action and generating support. We urge civil society organizations, the media, and individuals to actively engage in advocacy campaigns, social media initiatives, and public outreach programs to educate communities and advocate for the eradication of child labor.
d. Forging Collaboration and Partnerships: Addressing the complex issue of child labor requires collaboration among governments, civil society organizations, businesses, and communities. By working together, we can pool our resources, share best practices, and develop innovative solutions to combat child labor effectively.
e. Making Business Practices Responsible: Companies and businesses have a crucial role to play in preventing child labor within their supply chains. We call upon businesses to adopt ethical sourcing practices, conduct thorough due diligence, and ensure that their operations are free from any form of child labor.
f. Supporting the Vulnerable Communities: Investing in social protection programs, poverty alleviation initiatives, and access to essential services is key to addressing the root causes of child labor. Governments must prioritize the well-being of vulnerable communities and provide the necessary support to uplift families out of poverty, reducing the incidence of child labor.
g. Instituting Rehabilitation: Efforts to eliminate child labor must also focus on empowering children who have been victims of exploitation. Rehabilitation programs, access to healthcare, psychological support, and vocational training opportunities are vital in helping survivors of child labor rebuild their lives and regain their dignity.

As we stand together in this global campaign against child labor, let us remember that every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive in an environment free from exploitation. Let us work tirelessly to protect the rights of children online and offline, create meaningful change for them and with them, and build a brighter future for all.

Together, we can and should end the practice of exploiting children from labor.

In solidarity,
Human Rights Online Philippines

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