RAWALPINDI, Pakistan, June 14: Despite observing World Day Against Child Labour alongside the international community, Pakistan continues to struggle with widespread child exploitation, raising questions about the effectiveness of its laws and enforcement mechanisms, according to a report by The Express Tribune.
Child labor remains deeply entrenched across the country, with little visible progress toward fulfilling international commitments aimed at protecting children from economic exploitation, the report said.
While official events and awareness campaigns marked the occasion, critics argue that practical measures to eliminate child labor remain largely absent.
Children between the ages of 10 and 15 are still commonly employed in motorcycle repair shops, vehicle workshops, roadside eateries, tire repair stalls, and other informal businesses in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Many of these children work long hours in hazardous conditions instead of attending school.
The situation is equally alarming for young girls.
Girls as young as 8 are often seen collecting recyclable waste, including cardboard, plastic bottles, scrap metal, and bones from the streets while carrying loads heavier than themselves.
Many work in worn-out clothing and face severe social and economic hardships.
Reports of abuse involving child domestic workers continue to surface.
Cases involving physical violence, forced hair cutting, and sexual assault of young girls employed in households have frequently resulted in police complaints.
Child labor is reportedly present even in the homes of influential officials and members of the judiciary, reflecting the extent of the problem.
Government initiatives, including child protection legislation, anti-begging laws, and the establishment of child welfare institutions, have produced limited results despite receiving substantial funding.
Child begging, waste-picking, and labor in hazardous sectors remain widespread, according to The Express Tribune.
The International Labour Organization has repeatedly highlighted the global challenge of child labor and promotes the message that education is every child’s right.
However, millions of children worldwide, including a significant number in Pakistan, continue to work under difficult and often dangerous conditions, the report added.
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