This Code of Conduct on Child Labor of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is a regional policy document aimed at addressing the issue of child labor in Southern Africa. The document highlights the global and regional increase in child labor, emphasizing that many SADC member states lack comprehensive national strategies to combat it. It calls for immediate action to eliminate the worst forms of child labor and develop national programs to address all forms of child labor. Member states are urged to ratify and implement relevant international conventions and instruments, including ILO Conventions 138 and 182, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. Member states should develop clear national policies with defined objectives, descriptions of the problem, identification of target groups, and descriptions of intervention types and responsible institutions. The document emphasizes the necessity of reliable data to understand the scope of child labour and to inform national programs aimed at its elimination. Key components of effective action against child labour include robust legislation, enforcement of labour laws, and the establishment of a minimum age for employment. Member states are encouraged to strengthen enforcement structures and provide adequate training for labour inspectors. Education is highlighted as a crucial tool for eliminating child labour. Access to affordable, quality education can significantly reduce child labour rates by keeping children in school and away from work. Additional measures suggested include providing health care through schools, subsidies for education, compulsory schooling, and alternative income-generating activities for families. The document also addresses the health and welfare of child workers, noting that many come from low-income families and suffer from malnutrition and poor health.
2000-08-01