The fight against child labor also involves improving working conditions and incomes for adults. This was one of the main findings highlighted on Friday in Anosy during the national celebration of the World Day Against Child Labor, observed annually on June 12. “A child’s place is in school, not at work,” participants repeatedly reminded during the discussions held in the main hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The discussions particularly emphasized the link between decent work for adults, household income, and child protection. Access for parents to stable and well-paid jobs can reduce the need for children to work and encourage them to stay in school. “When adults have decent work and sufficient income, the reliance on child labor can decrease, as parents have more means to keep their children in school,” emphasized the workers’ representative present at the meeting.
The Minister of Labor, Employment and Civil Service, Franconio Denis Mac, also established this link with the social and economic measures implemented by the State. According to him, improving social conditions and purchasing power helps prevent child labor. The increase in the minimum wage in the private sector is among the measures cited by the minister. Improving remuneration and allowances for public servants, as well as promoting employment for those not integrated into the civil service or the private sector, were also among the actions mentioned. “When social conditions in Madagascar are improved, child labor will disappear on its own,” the minister declared.
However, stakeholders present at the commemoration stressed that improving household income alone cannot be the only response to the phenomenon. The fight against child labor also requires measures in education, social protection, labor inspection, and support for children exposed to hazardous activities.
In Madagascar, poverty, inequality, school exclusion, household vulnerability, and insufficient social protection are among the factors that can push children to work. According to data from the 2025 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), one in four children is involved in labor. Among working children, one in four performs hazardous work, particularly in the mining and tourism sectors.
Globally, the International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that 138 million children are involved in labor, 54% of whom are exposed to activities dangerous to their health. Sub-Saharan Africa remains particularly affected by this phenomenon. As the international goal to eliminate child labor by 2025 has not been met, efforts will need to be strengthened in the coming years.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-17 16:08:41 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://2424.mg/travail-offrir-et-promouvoir-des-emplois-decents-pour-les-adultes-pour-mieux-proteger-les-enfants/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=travail-offrir-et-promouvoir-des-emplois-decents-pour-les-adultes-pour-mieux-proteger-les-enfants