Save the Children Position Statement on the Protection of Children from Harmful Work

This statement represents the position of Save the Children on the protection of children from harmful work.

At a time when the international community discusses a new global development framework and when many poor and vulnerable populations have suffered the consequences of a severe economic crisis or disruptive economic growth, tackling harmful forms of work involving children is one of the most pressing tasks facing the world today. Some of the children who are engaged in harmful work experience its worst forms – including slavery, forced and bonded work, child trafficking, illicit activities and involvement in armed conflict, prostitution or pornography. Currently it is estimated that there are over 115 million girls and boys who are engaged in hazardous work that deprives them of their rights and is harmful to their physical and mental development.

This paper outlines Save the Children’s understanding and response to these and other grave violations of children’s rights.