Combating All Forms of Child Labour

Combating All Forms of Child Labour
(Arab Trade Union Confederation Educational Platform)

Dear colleagues,
We are pleased to present this lesson on the Arab Trade Union Confederation’s educational platform, which addresses one of the most pressing issues in the field of human and labor rights: the elimination of all forms of child labour.

Despite the progress made globally in reducing child labour, millions of children—especially in the Arab region—are still forced to work in hazardous conditions, deprived of education and protection, and exposed to physical, psychological, and economic exploitation. Reports from the International Labour Organization (ILO) indicate that multiple ongoing crises—including armed conflict, economic hardship, and displacement—have further exacerbated the prevalence of child labour.

Through this lesson, we aim to:
• Understand the definition of child labour, and distinguish between acceptable work and exploitative child labour according to international standards.
• Explore key ILO conventions, including Convention No. 138 on the minimum age for employment, and Convention No. 182 on the worst forms of child labour.
• Analyze the root causes of child labour, particularly in fragile social and economic contexts.
• Discuss the role of trade unions in identifying child labour cases, raising public awareness, and advocating for protective and educational policies.
• Highlight successful experiences from the Arab region and beyond in fighting child labour.

This lesson includes visual learning materials, simplified legal texts, and a practical guide for union representatives on how to report and advocate against child labour, along with case studies from sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services.

Fighting child labour is not only a moral and humanitarian duty, but also a critical part of the broader struggle for social justice and a fairer future.

Let us engage in this lesson with collective awareness and trade union commitment, in defense of a safe childhood and every child’s right to education, protection, and healthy development.