Forced child labor is the exploitation of children through any form of work that deprives them of their childhood, education, and potential, and is harmful to their physical and mental development. It involves situations where children are made to work against their will, often under threat, coercion, or deception, and typically includes circumstances where they are paid little or nothing for their labor.
Key characteristics of forced child labor include:
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Involuntary Nature: Children are forced to work under duress or compulsion, often through physical threats, emotional coercion, or deception.
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Exploitation: The work is typically exploitative, with children engaged in hazardous conditions or in industries that are harmful to their health and well-being.
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Deprivation of Education: Children in forced labor often have their educational opportunities severely limited, preventing them from pursuing schooling and skill development.
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Violation of Rights: Forced child labor violates international laws and conventions, including those established by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
Efforts to address and combat forced child labor involve legal frameworks, education initiatives, awareness campaigns, and community engagement to protect children's rights and ensure their healthy development.