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Preventive Measures for Child Labor in Pakistan

Child labor is an issue that prevails in Pakistan due to reasons such as poverty, lack of education, and social inequality. Educational institutions can play a critical role in mitigating this issue by providing free or subsidized education to the less privileged children, along with maintaining a friendly, non-discriminatory attitude. Schools can also collaborate with NGOs and government programs to provide scholarships, vocational training, and mid-day meals, encouraging families to prioritize education over child labor. Furthermore, awareness campaigns within communities can highlight the importance of education and the long-term benefits of eradicating child labor, fostering collective responsibility for change.

The Pakistani government has taken several steps to address child labor, though significant challenges remain. Key initiatives include the enactment of laws such as the Employment of Children Act, 1991, and the Punjab Restriction on Employment of Children Act, 2016, which prohibit child labor in hazardous industries. Pakistan is also a signatory to international conventions like the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Minimum Age Convention and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The government, through the Ehsaas Program, targets poverty reduction. Poverty is a primary cause of child labor, and thus support to vulnerable families is a very good approach toward poverty reduction. The access to education has been improved by various programs, such as “Waseela-e-Taleem,” which incentivizes school enrollment. However, enforcement of child labor laws and addressing informal sectors remain critical areas for improvement.

Child Protection Laws in Pakistan

Pakistan has enacted several laws to protect children from exploitation, abuse, and harm. Key child protection laws in the country include:

1. The Employment of Children Act, 1991
   • Prohibits the employment of children under 14 years in certain hazardous industries and occupations.
2. The Punjab Restriction on Employment of Children Act, 2016
   • Restricts the employment of children under 15 years and regulates the working hours of adolescents aged 15-18.
3. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Child Protection and Welfare Act, 2010
   • Provides legal measures for the protection, care, and rehabilitation of children at risk.
4. The Sindh Prohibition of Employment of Children Act, 2017
   • Prohibits child labor under the age of 14 and regulates working conditions for adolescents aged 14-18.
5. The Bonded Labor System (Abolition) Act, 1992
   • Aims to eliminate bonded labor, which often involves children.
6. The Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2018
   • Criminalizes trafficking of persons, including children, for exploitation.
7. The Juvenile Justice System Act, 2018
   • Provides for the protection and rehabilitation of children in conflict with the law.
8. The Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010
   • Includes provisions to safeguard minors from harassment in workplaces.
9. The Zainab Alert, Response and Recovery Act, 2020
   • Focuses on timely response and recovery mechanisms for missing and abducted children.
10. The Constitution of Pakistan
    • Article 11: Prohibits child labor in hazardous occupations.
    • Article 25-A: Guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 5-16.

Despite these laws, enforcement remains a challenge, and significant efforts are needed to ensure effective implementation and protection of children’s rights.