There are currently 152 million children in child labour, 72 million of whom carry out hazardous work. Almost one in ten of all children worldwide are in child labour. The current health and economic crisis, which appeared with COVID-19, could significantly worsen the living situation of millions around the world and therefore push more children into child labour.
The World Day Against Child Labour takes place on 12 June. This year, due to safety measures, the day will be commemorated with an online campaign with Global March Against Child Labour. UNICEF and ILO will also publish a joint paper on how the pandemic has impacted efforts to end child labour and you may join for a discussion on the importance of protecting children from child labour in COVID-19 response and recovery plans.
We are looking forward to the International Year on the Elimination of Child Labour, 2021, and the SDG Target 8.7 to end child labour in all its forms by 2025. To learn more, please visit the United Nations' website.