A child’s hand looks good holding a PENCIL, not for doing hard labor.
Every year on 12 June, the world observes World Day Against Child Labor to raise awareness about the millions of children who are deprived of their childhood, education, and opportunities because they are forced to work. According to the Human Rights Watch, almost 138 million children around the world are engaged in child labor, with 54 million working in hazardous conditions in agriculture, mining, domestic labor, and other sectors. This year’s theme, “Red Card to Child Labor: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults,” uses the powerful language of sports to send a clear message: that child labor has no place in our societies and must be shown a red card.
Just as a red card in sports signals a serious violation of the rules, child labor represents a violation of children’s rights. Every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment where they can learn, play, and develop their full potential. Instead of working in fields, factories, mines, markets, or homes, children should be in schools, playgrounds, and communities that support their growth and well-being. According to Humanium, despite commendable efforts by the Cameroon government, 43.7% of children aged 5-14 are in work, and 42.4% of children aged 7-14 work while attending school. The dignity and rights of children must be preserved, in particular in accordance with Cameroon’s various international commitments.
The International Labor Organization Convention No. 182 defines the worst forms of child labor as prohibited to all persons under 18 years, as all forms of slavery or practice. The fight against child labor is not only about protecting children; it is also about ensuring decent work opportunities for adults. Poverty, unemployment, and inadequate wages often force families to rely on their children’s income for survival. By promoting fair wages, safe working conditions, social protection, and sustainable livelihoods for adults, communities can reduce the economic pressures that lead to child labor.
Our mission in RADA is to support community development by building bridges to sustainable solutions in health, education, agriculture, technology, peace, and environmental protection through inclusive approaches. We believe that access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities is essential to preventing and reducing child labor. By strengthening families and communities with sustainable livelihoods and social support systems, we help create environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive instead of being forced into labor. Through collaboration and community empowerment, we promote the protection of children’s rights and work toward a future free from child labor.
As we commemorate this important day, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where every child enjoys the right to education, protection, and a bright future. Together, we can give a red card to child labor, ensure fair play for children, and promote decent work for adults.
A future free from child labor is possible when we work together to protect children, empower families, and build societies based on dignity, equality, and opportunity for all.
By: The RADA Peace Team
