Question

Explain approaches to reduce child labor in developing countries

Answer 1

Child labor is a serious problem affecting developing countries and there has to be multiple approaches to reduce the problem of child labor.

The most effective approach is to bring in legislation that will prohibit firms and individuals from employing child labor and to impose strict punishment to everyone who employ child labor. The passing of legislation should be backed up by establishment of enforcement agencies who will monitor the labor market and help in identify industries that employ child labor. Wherever violation are identified, the enforcement agencies should take strong action and immediately put an end to child labor practices.

Along with legislation the government should make education compulsory for children aged between 5 - 16 years. There has to be more public funds allocated towards building new schools and infrastructure and ensure that children attend schools and not take up employment. The government should start awareness programs among parents and children and stress the importance of education so that children have a bright future when they grow up as adults.

The government should provide incentives for firms who do not indulge in child labor practices. The incentives could be in the form of tax reliefs, recognition etc which will encourage firms to stop employing child labor.

Thus the efforts to reduce child labor in developing countries should have a multiple approach as opposed to a single approach and only then the efforts will bear results.