New UN and ILO report shows 138 million children in child labour in 2024, including 54 million in hazardous work. Global target to end child labour by 2025 unlikely to be met

[dropcap]C[/dropcap]hild labour 2024 statistics published by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have revealed that nearly 138 million children are currently engaged in child labour worldwide, including 54 million subjected to hazardous work that threatens their health and development.

Also read: ‘Tragic’ United Nations reacts after 3 Libyan men burn Nigerian migrant worker alive (Photos)

The report, released on Wednesday ahead of World Day Against Child Labour on 12 June and the International Day of Play on 11 June, underscores a troubling reality: despite progress, the world is falling short of its commitment to eliminate child labour by 2025.

Although the number of children in child labour has dropped by more than 20 million since 2020, the global rate of progress remains too slow.

The study warns that to meet the 2025 target, the current pace would need to accelerate elevenfold. Still, the findings also include a note of cautious optimism.

“Today, nearly 138 million children are in child labour worldwide, down from 160 million four years ago,” the report stated.

“There are over 100 million fewer children in child labour today than in 2000, even as the child population increased by 230 million over the same period.”

This progress, the report noted, can be attributed to key policy measures, including access to free and high-quality education, better school-to-work transition support for adolescents, and stronger legal protections aligned with international labour standards.

The joint report stressed that targeted strategies to combat child labour must be integrated into broader national development plans.

These include macroeconomic frameworks, labour market reforms, and sector-specific strategies that prioritise child protection.

“The latest estimates underscore the magnitude of the challenge of ending child labour,” the report said. “They also point to progress, and in doing so, affirm the possibilities.

We have the blueprint for success the right policies, adequate resources and unwavering commitment. Now is the time to act to free future generations from child labour.”

Also read: UNICEF sounds alarm over theft of food meant for Northeast children suffering from malnutrition

As the world marks another World Day Against Child Labour, advocates say renewed political will and sustained investment are vital to building on recent gains and ensuring that no child is left behind.