Can this be positive for economic development? Some Facts…. Estimated number of child labourers: 246 million Electroplate worker, India     1993 Under the age of 10: 73 million Annual Deaths: 22 000 Estimated number in ‘worst forms’: 8.4 million (2004) Can this be positive for economic development?

Child Labour is a NEGATIVE force for economic development Blacksmith apprentice, Afghanistan 2002

Economic Development: Increased availability of food, shelter and clothing Higher incomes, better education, better attention to human values People and nations free from servitude, the forces of ignorance and human misery Metal worker, Morocco     1997

Some More Facts… Children is not as productive as adults Negative relationship between income and child labour Shepherd, Bolivia

Labour Supply Children in labour force keep wages low Coal collecting, Afghanistan 2002 Children in labour force keep wages low Children out of the labour force increases wages

Human Capital Child labour perpetuates poverty and hinders development Low Level Development Trap Take off Low Level Trap Human Capital Child labour perpetuates poverty and hinders development Investment in human capital perpetuates long term sustainable development Brick worker, Nepal      1995

Vicious Cycle of Child Labor Perpetuates Poverty Conclusion Construction Workers, India Vicious Cycle of Child Labor Perpetuates Poverty

Thank you. Garbage picker, Mexico     1996