Call for collective action to eliminate Child Labour in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Jun, 2026) The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC), in collaboration with the National Commission on the Rights of the Child (NCRC), commemorated World Day Against Child Labour 2026 under the global theme “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults.”

Dr Nikhat Shakeel Khan, Convenor of the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR), stated that children represent Pakistan’s future and their protection is fundamental to sustainable national development. She reiterated that the PCCR remains committed to strengthening legislation, improving policy frameworks, and ensuring effective oversight for child welfare.

She emphasized that eliminating child labour requires coordinated action across all sectors, including government, civil society, the private sector, and communities, while also addressing root causes such as poverty, lack of access to quality education, and weak social protection systems.

Dr Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan, called for stronger child protection mechanisms and rigorous enforcement of existing laws to end child labour. She noted that children must be provided with safe environments and meaningful access to education rather than being compelled into work due to economic hardship.

She further stressed the need for a comprehensive approach involving expanded social safety nets, improved school enrolment and retention, and enhanced institutional coordination to effectively combat child labour. She underlined that sustained political commitment is essential to break the cycle of deprivation affecting millions of children.

Mr Riaz Fatyana, Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan, emphasized the importance of prioritizing child rights within national policymaking and ensuring that legislative commitments translate into practical implementation. He highlighted that child labour reflects deep-rooted socioeconomic disparities and governance challenges.

He further noted that its elimination requires not only strong legal frameworks but also effective enforcement, improved monitoring systems, and greater investment in education and social protection.

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He called for strengthened collaboration among parliamentarians, government institutions, and civil society to secure a better future for every child in Pakistan.

Ms Asiya Arif, Executive Director of SPARC, stressed the need for a collective red card to child labour; address the issue in the supply chain, hotels, automobile workshops, brick kiln industry and stressed the need for coordinated and sustained efforts through strong enforcement mechanisms, expanded social protection, and access to quality education as per SDGs and Article 16 of the Constitution. She emphasized that eliminating child labour requires greater and consistent investment in children’s well-being and development. She further noted that protecting children is essential for building an equitable and prosperous society.

Dr Khalil Ahmad Dogar, Program Manager at SPARC, stated that this year’s theme underscores a fundamental reality: without decent work opportunities and adequate social protection for adults, many children remain vulnerable to exploitation and forced labour that deprives them of their childhood and future potential.

Nadia Bibi, a member of the NCRC, stressed collective action on part of all stakeholders, whereas Sobia Ahmad from Center of Labor Research (CLR) stressed implementing SDG target 8.7 on forced labor.

Members of SPARC’s Children’s Clubs also participated in the event and highlighted the challenges faced by children engaged in child labour. They urged all stakeholders to take immediate and collective action to protect children from exploitation and ensure their right to a safe and dignified childhood.

The children further called on the State to provide equal opportunities, particularly in education and development, so they can fully realize their potential. They expressed their strong desire to contribute positively to Pakistan’s future as responsible citizens, stating that they do not wish to become a burden on the country but to be active contributors to its progress.