When a child works

Both the constitution and the labour laws in Pakistan prohibit the employment of children before the age of 14 years. According to the ILO, child labour is defined as work that has the potential to deprive children of their childhood, of their dignity, and is also harmful for their physical, moral and mental development. This physical work also has the ability to interfere with their education – either by not allowing them to attend school or forcing them to leave school prematurely.

Even if a child chooses to continue his education, it becomes impossible for him to manage studies along with heavy work. Many parents want to send their children to school, but because of poverty, they are unable to do so. In fact, a large number of children are involved in doing work at an early age to support their parents financially. It is the responsibility of the government to curb child labour.

Asad Khan

Karachi