Child labor: A phenomenon in need of intervention

Child labor: A phenomenon in need of intervention
Abu Anas Al-Souri

The phenomenon of child labor is spreading and increasing in developing societies due to economic, social, and educational factors. This exposes children daily to numerous risks that hinder their physical and mental growth, preventing the development of their capabilities and skills.

Child labor is globally defined as any work that harms the child’s health, growth, or well-being. Sometimes, the work does not correspond to the child’s age, nor does it contribute to their physical and mental development, impacting their education, comfort, and enjoyment.

In the midst of the crisis that Syria has undergone over the past twelve years, significant damage to children has been observed due to difficult living conditions. Often, children find themselves working in strenuous jobs that adults can barely endure. Children can be seen in construction work and even in commercial centers selling vegetables and in industrial facilities.

I recall an incident I witnessed, where I saw a child working in a building materials retail center, handling items such as cement and iron. These tasks were harsh, especially in cold weather conditions. I noticed bruises on the child’s hands, and their clothing was worn and old, providing little protection from the cold. I stopped the child and jokingly asked, “Where are the children your age at this time? Why are you here?” The child’s response was harsh and saddened me: “Oh, sir, my father passed away years ago, and I am the eldest in my family. It is my duty to bear the expenses of my family alone.”

Certainly, child labor is an undesirable phenomenon in our time, and efforts should be made to eliminate and reduce it due to its negative effects on the present and future of children. The harm they endure due to the difficulty of work, occupational diseases, exploitation, and even physical abuse can lead to aggressive behavior and a tendency towards violence against society. This results from the sense of social oppression and injustice, posing a real danger to future social balance and human relationships.

Therefore, urgent intervention is needed to develop plans to confront and eliminate this phenomenon. This can be achieved through awareness campaigns about the social and economic impact of child labor, activating the role of humanitarian organizations in monitoring violations of labor laws and international standards for child employment. Additionally, adopting means to impose sanctions on those who violate the law and conducting advocacy campaigns to develop legislation related to child protection, respecting their rights, and considering their affairs and privacy.

Focusing on this issue through the media can increase awareness and shape public opinion to contribute to finding a solution. The community must play an influential role in finding solutions and developing its culture regarding children and their rights. Laws should be established to determine the appropriate age for child labor under conditions that ensure their safety.