World Day Against Child Labour

A Collective Commitment More Necessary Than Ever

“Children are the future of the human family: it is up to all of us to foster their growth, health, and well-being,” Pope Francis reminded us during the publication of the International Labour Organization (ILO) report in 2021. He also called on us to “do everything possible” to address the root causes of child labor.

Every year on June 12, the ILO and its global partners commemorate the World Day Against Child Labour. The 2025 edition will be a key milestone, marked by the long-awaited release of the global report on child labor estimates and trends. Produced in collaboration with UNICEF, this report will help shape future policy directions and renew international commitment.

On this occasion, the global community is invited to:
✅ promote the universal ratification of Convention No. 138 on the minimum age for admission to employment;
✅ strengthen the implementation of Convention No. 182 on the worst forms of child labor;
✅ continue the commitments outlined in the Durban Call to Action.

Eliminating child labor requires an integrated approach: strengthening education systems, expanding social protection, and ensuring decent work for adults and young people. Addressing the economic and social root causes is key to achieving sustainable solutions.

Everyone has a role to play. The ILO, UN agencies, and their partners invite people everywhere to get involved. A practical guide is available to suggest concrete actions at both individual and collective levels.

👉 To better understand this issue, read the story of a former child laborer who is now dedicated to ending child labor.

Together, let’s accelerate efforts to build a world free from child labor.