Homes and farms not immune to child labour

Child labor extends beyond factories and traditional workplaces, often appearing in homes, farms, and family businesses, according to Gaylene Kamali, Manager of Advocacy at the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation. Speaking during the World Day Against Child Labour, Kamali highlighted that these less conventional settings can still negatively affect a child's education and overall well-being.

Kamali clarified that children's contributions to family life and enterprises are not automatically classified as child labor, especially when these activities support learning and development. However, she stressed that the boundary is crossed when such work compromises a child's well-being, hinders their education, or limits their future opportunities.

"And when those barriers persist, vulnerability will follow them to adulthood," Kamali stated. She explained that children who leave school early often enter adulthood with limited skills, leading to low-paying or insecure employment and placing greater economic pressure on their households.

Ensuring children have access to education, protection, and opportunities is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty and vulnerability that often drives child labor. Kamali emphasized that tackling this issue necessitates a united effort from families, communities, employers, and the government to allow children to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

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And when those barriers persist, vulnerability will follow them to adulthood. And if we look at this through a life-cycle lens, the connection becomes clear. Children who leave school early often enter adulthood with limited skills. Limited skills often lead to low-paying or insecure employment. And low-income households then face greater economic pressures.