Child labour is still a serious problem in Pakistan. Recent surveys show that in Sindh alone, around 1.3 million children are working instead of enjoying their childhood. Most of them are found in farms, small factories, shops and markets. Sadly, many of these children face dangerous working conditions that can harm their health and cause injuries. But child labour not only affects children’s health, but also takes away their right to education. Although there has been some improvement over the years because of stronger laws and better monitoring, millions of children in Pakistan are still forced to work. Poverty, weak enforcement of laws and poor access to good schools keep pushing children into labour.
To solve these issues, Pakistan must focus on both protection and opportunity for children. The government should strictly enforce child labour laws, provide financial support to poor families and improve the quality of education so that parents feel confident sending their children to school. Communities and organisations can also play their part by raising awareness and reporting cases of child exploitation.
Ghulam Hussain Bhatti
Jacobabad
