The NCRC Celebrates World Day Against Child Labour and Launches the State of Children in Pakistan Portal
Islamabad :- Federal Minister of Human Rights Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, is the chief guest of ceremony, affirmed the government’s commitment, stating, “The Ministry of Human Rights is fully committed to supporting the efforts of the NCRC in their mission to end child labour and bring about legislative reforms. I am pleased to announce that the comprehensive bill ‘Prohibition of Child Labour in Domestic Work 2024’ drafted by the NCRC is being considered at the highest forum of the National Task Force on Human Rights.”
The National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) commemorated the World Day Against Child Labour by launching the State of Children in Pakistan portal and presenting its annual report for 2023-24. This event marks a significant step forward in the fight against child labour and the promotion of children’s rights in Pakistan.
World Day Against Child Labour, observed annually on June 12th, serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to eradicate child labour in all its forms. It is a day dedicated to reflecting on the plight of millions of children worldwide who are deprived of their childhood, education and potential.
In Pakistan, child labour remains a critical challenge. According to estimates, 9.8% of children aged 10-14 are involved in child labour, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that one in every fourth household engages a child in domestic work. These alarming statistics highlight the pressing need for concerted efforts to address this issue.
Recent cases, such as those of Rizwana and Fatimah Furrero, have underscored the exploitation and abuse faced by children in domestic work. In response, the NCRC initiated a national consultation process to draft the Prohibition of Child Labour in Domestic Work Bill 2024. This proposed legislation aims to make the offence non-compoundable and non-bailable so that powerful cannot escape justice. Following the consultative process, the bill has been forwarded to the federal Ministry of Human Rights for submission to the Cabinet.
Chairperson NCRC Ayesha Raza Farooq emphasized, “As we leave this room today, let us commit to becoming advocates for change. Speak up against the silent exploitation happening in our midst. Let us not normalize young boys and girls working in our neighborhoods, sometimes in our own homes.“
Geir Tonstol, Country Director ILO, highlighted the broader implications of addressing child labour, stating, “Achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8.7 is not just about eliminating child labour; it’s about breaking the chains of poverty, providing education and opportunities and ensuring a brighter future for every child. We must commit to this goal with urgency and determination, knowing that each child’s freedom from labour brings us one step closer to a just and equitable society.”
Dr. Inoussa Kabore, Deputy Country Representative UNICEF, stressed the importance of collaboration, saying, “Stakeholder engagement serves as a powerful tool for bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to address complex issues. It fosters dialogue, generates innovative solutions, and mobilizes support for our shared cause. In the context of Pakistan, where child labour persists across various sectors, stakeholder engagement becomes crucial.”
The event was participated by a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including international and national non-governmental organizations, embassies, high commissions, donor agencies, government representatives, civil society organizations and child rights experts. At the event’s conclusion, dignitaries, including the chief guest and Commission members, jointly launched the State of Children in Pakistan portal and the NCRC’s annual report for April 2023 to March 2024. The report details the Commission’s achievements, including the launch of a three-year strategic plan, partnerships with national and international organizations, research publications, policy briefs and significant advocacy efforts.
The State of Children in Pakistan portal is a groundbreaking initiative that provides a comprehensive knowledge hub for all stakeholders involved in child rights. This platform serves as a repository of valuable resources, including data, reports, articles, research studies, and national and international legal and policy frameworks. It will empower policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to make evidence-based decisions and interventions that directly impact the lives of children in Pakistan.