Morocco's Unwavering Stride Towards Safeguarding Childhood
In a remarkable achievement, Morocco has succeeded in reducing the number of child laborers by an astonishing 94% over the past two decades, as affirmed by Younes Sekkouri, Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills, during a session on the prohibition of child labor at the 112th International Labor Conference in Geneva.
Highlighting Morocco's significant strides in upholding children's rights, Sekkouri emphasized that child workers now account for less than 1.4% of the workforce. He clarified that the children who do engage in labor primarily provide temporary assistance to their parents, particularly in rural areas. He reiterated Morocco's resolute commitment to eradicating child labor, emphasizing that a child's natural place is in school.
Marking the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the International Labor Organization's (ILO) Convention 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labor, Sekkouri reminded the gathering that the protection of children is a constitutional commitment in Morocco. He stressed that addressing child labor is not a luxury but an integrated national strategy.
The minister presented a series of essential approaches upon which Morocco relies to combat child labor. These include sustained investment in vocational training, combating school dropout rates, ensuring direct support for broad social segments, and strengthening pre-school education.
Sekkouri highlighted that social protection generalization programs are mechanisms aimed at improving quality of life, enabling families to care for their children and allowing them to grow in a healthy and natural environment. He also stressed the importance of strengthening workplace inspections, noting that 500 labor inspectors across the Kingdom follow strict rules to ensure companies comply with the prohibition of child labor.
The 112th session of the International Labor Conference, attended by representatives of the three parties to labor (governments, workers, and employers) from 187 countries, addressed several topics, including protection against biological hazards, safeguarding fundamental principles and rights at work, and a general discussion on decent work and the care economy.
By prioritizing child welfare, investing in education, and implementing comprehensive strategies, Morocco exemplifies a steadfast commitment to nurturing its future generations, ensuring that every child can enjoy their fundamental right to a carefree childhood.