Combatting child labour in the cotton value chain in Egypt through the development of cooperatives – ILO

This study is the product of a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation and the International Labour Organization, through the project “Accelerating Action for the Elimination of Child Labour in Supply Chains in Africa” (ACCEL Africa), funded by the Government of the Netherlands. Both parties played crucial roles in the production of this study.

This report presents the findings of a collaborative study conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation and the International Labour Organization (ILO). The study was carried out as part of the project “Accelerating Action for the Elimination of Child Labour in Supply Chains in Africa” (ACCEL Africa), which is generously funded by the Government of the Netherlands. The Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation and the ILO have been actively involved in every stage of this study, making significant contributions to its development.

Introduction

The objective of this study is to examine the issue of child labour in supply chains in Africa and identify strategies to accelerate its elimination. The study is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, particularly SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. By addressing child labour, we aim to contribute to the achievement of these goals and create a sustainable future for all.

Methodology

The study employed a comprehensive research methodology, combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through surveys, interviews, and field visits to various supply chains in Africa. The research team also conducted a thorough review of existing literature and reports on child labour in the region.

Findings

1. The study revealed that child labour is prevalent in supply chains across Africa, particularly in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors.
2. Children engaged in hazardous work were found to be exposed to various health and safety risks, including physical injuries and exposure to harmful chemicals.
3. Factors contributing to the persistence of child labour include poverty, lack of access to education, and inadequate enforcement of labor laws.
4. Efforts to eliminate child labour have been made by various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and civil society. However, these efforts need to be intensified and coordinated to achieve significant progress.

Recommendations

• Strengthen legislation and enforcement mechanisms to combat child labour in supply chains.
• Invest in education and vocational training programs to provide alternative opportunities for children at risk of child labour.
• Promote responsible business practices and encourage companies to adopt child labour-free supply chains.
• Enhance collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to ensure a holistic and effective approach to eliminating child labour.

Conclusion

This study highlights the urgent need to address child labour in supply chains in Africa. By aligning our efforts with the SDGs, we can work towards creating a future where every child has access to education, decent work, and a safe environment. The Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation and the ILO remain committed to accelerating action for the elimination of child labour in supply chains in Africa, and we call upon all stakeholders to join us in this important endeavor.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The article mentions the project “Accelerating Action for the Elimination of Child Labour in Supply Chains in Africa,” which indicates a focus on addressing child labor issues in supply chains. This aligns with SDG 8, which aims to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. Additionally, SDG 12, which promotes responsible consumption and production, is relevant as it seeks to ensure sustainable practices throughout supply chains. SDG 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions, is also connected as it aims to end abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against children.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
• Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.
• Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children.

The article highlights the efforts to eliminate child labor in supply chains, which aligns with Target 8.7 of SDG 8. The focus on responsible consumption and production in supply chains also relates to Target 12.4 of SDG 12. Furthermore, the aim to end abuse and exploitation of children in supply chains connects to Target 16.2 of SDG 16.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions the project “Accelerating Action for the Elimination of Child Labour in Supply Chains in Africa” as a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation and the International Labour Organization. This indicates that progress towards the targets can be measured through indicators such as the number of supply chains implementing measures to eliminate child labor, the reduction in the prevalence of child labor in supply chains, and the enforcement of laws and regulations to combat child labor.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: ilo.org