World Day Against Child Labour highlights Moldova's rural risks
On June 12, the global community marks the World Day Against Child Labour, shedding light on an ongoing crisis that compromises the future of millions of minors. According to joint data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF, approximately 138 million children aged 5 to 17 were engaged in labor in 2024. Among them, nearly 54 million performed hazardous work that directly threatened their health and development.
Global trends and agricultural exploitation
Although the number of working children dropped by over 20 million in recent years, experts warn that global progress remains critically slow. The international goal to eliminate child labor entirely has not been met, leaving 1 in 13 children worldwide still trapped in the workforce.
Agriculture remains the dominant sector, accounting for over 60% of all recorded cases. In this field, young workers frequently handle dangerous tools and endure harsh physical labor. Beyond agriculture, millions of children toil in industry, construction, commerce, and services, a reality that systematically deprives them of formal education.
Socio-economic vulnerabilities in Moldova
The Republic of Moldova reflects these global challenges on a local scale. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics reveals that tens of thousands of Moldovan children are involved in such economic activities, primarily within vulnerable rural communities.
Local experts attribute this trend to systemic poverty, parental migration, school abandonment, and a lack of proper domestic supervision. This international day serves as an urgent call for systemic accountability and solidarity. Every child retains the fundamental right to education, state protection, and a secure, carefree childhood.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
