According to the United Nations Convention, a child means every human being below the age of 18 years unless, under the law applicable to the child, majority is attained earlier. Child labour is more common in rural communities than in urban centres and is present in agriculture, domestic work, quarrying, fishing, construction, manufacturing, mining, artisanal work, rug weaving, waste disposal, street vending, begging, shoe shining and prostitution. The health sector also has a direct link with child labour. Frequently, adults have vested interests in child labour. In a few cases, children s earnings represent practically the only income.
Governments often consider it embarrassing to admit the existence of child labour.
Implementing legislation, where it exists, is often difficult due to seriously understaffed labour inspectorates, a growing informal labour market and corruption. Children differ biologically from adults as they are at different stages of the growth and development process. They are often physically weaker, mentally more vulnerable and their immaturity may leave them incapable of assessing occupational risks or the need for protective measures. Implications for Nurses Nurses, as patient advocates, have a role to play in the campaign to safeguard the childhood of children. An economic perspective.