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Child Labor

In: English and Literature

Submitted By mariakhalique
Words 334
Pages 2
Child labor is a situation where young children are employed to work on firms, homes, hotels, and firms. The practice is common in developing countries but is limited in developed nations where it is considered to be illegal and a violation of human rights. The history of child labor can be traced back to the Victorian era. During this period, children were forced to work in mines and factories. Child labor also played a critical role during the industrial revolution. In this case, children as young as five years were forced to work in manufacturing industries under poor working conditions.
The introduction of child rights and human rights into the constitution of most countries has slowly curbed child labor. In Britain, for instance, the Factory Acts demands that children not more than ten years should not be allowed to work.
Child labor is mainly contributed by poverty. Most parents send their children to work so that they can bring the much needed income. The practice is common in poor countries. Children are forced to work in sweatshops, factories, fields; mines match factories, and households. On the other hand, children may work as tourist guides and some are sexually abused by tourist. Such cases are common in places like Kelala and Goa.
In the current world, more than 200 million children work, most of them in full-time basis. Majority of these children do not attend school, and are given little time to play. Moreover, they do not get proper parental care or nutrition. More than 50% of these children work in drug trafficking, slavery, prostitution, as well as in armed conflict Child labor is unacceptable and a violation of children rights. Some developed countries boycott products or goods made by these children. Children should be allowed to enjoy their childhood and should not be allowed to work like adults. The practice is evil and should be banned by governments. A child should not be denied the right for education just because of poverty.

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