Child Labour Day: A Global Call to Protect Every Childhood

June 12, 2025: Observed annually on June 12, World Day Against Child Labour serves as a global reminder of the urgent need to eliminate child labour and to protect the rights of millions of children still trapped in exploitation. It is a day to raise awareness, galvanize action, and reinforce our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is forced to work at the cost of their childhood, health, or education.

Despite decades of advocacy and measurable progress, millions of children under the age of 14 continue to work in homes, shops, farms, factories, and informal sectors—often under dangerous and degrading conditions. These children are pushed into labour due to poverty, coercion, and systemic exploitation, losing not only their right to learn and grow but often risking their physical and mental well-being.

🎯 Purpose of the Day

Launched in 2002 by the International Labour Organization (ILO) at its Geneva headquarters, World Day Against Child Labour brings global attention to this ongoing crisis. The initiative aims to catalyze international cooperation, policy reform, and grassroots movements that fight the economic and social roots of child labour.

In India, this global initiative aligns with the National Policy on Child Labour (adopted in 1987), which prioritizes the rehabilitation of affected children and tackles underlying causes, such as economic inequality and lack of access to education.

🗓️ Theme for 2025:

“Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up our efforts!”

This year’s theme reflects a dual sentiment: a recognition of the global strides made so far and a powerful call to action. It emphasizes the need to intensify collective efforts to fully eliminate child labour and meet international goals—particularly as we approach critical global milestones under the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

⚠️ Beyond Labour: A Broader Concern for Child Welfare

As part of the campaign to raise awareness, health experts have also highlighted related issues such as nutrition safety. For instance, warnings have been issued regarding the risks of feeding fruits like litchi to undernourished children, especially in rural areas where child labour is prevalent and healthcare access remains limited.

🧠 Why This Day Matters

World Day Against Child Labour reminds us that education, safety, and a nurturing environment are not privileges—they are basic rights. It’s a day to reaffirm our stance:

Childhood is for learning, playing, and dreaming—not for working in fields, factories, or kitchens.

Let us use this occasion to raise our voices, support initiatives, and accelerate progress toward a world where every child is free, safe, and in school.