According to the International Labour Organization, there are 168 million children worldwide who are involved in child labor. Child labor is defined as work that is hazardous, interferes with a child’s schooling or is harmful to their health and development.
The effects of child labor can be both physical and psychological. Physical effects can include injuries from dangerous working conditions, exposure to toxins and chemicals, and long hours leading to exhaustion. Children who work long hours often do not have time for proper nutrition, which can lead to stunted growth and poor physical development. Psychological effects of child labor can include anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Children who are exposed to violence or other traumatic experiences at work are especially vulnerable to developing PTSD.
Child labor often means that children miss out on an education. This can have lifelong consequences, as it limits their future employment opportunities and earnings potential. It also increases the likelihood that they will continue the cycle of poverty by passing it on to their own children when they become parents themselves.
There are many laws in place around the world aimed at protecting children from exploitation through child labor. However, enforcement of these laws is often weak due to lack of resources or political will. In addition, some families rely on the income generated by their children’s work in order to survive, so they are reluctant to report violations out of fear of losing this vital source of income.