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Child labor laws emerged in the late 19th century as a response to industrialization. As the economy became dominated by industrial wage labor, children became perfect candidates for particular roles. For instance, children were used in mines to explore narrow passageways. Poor children in particular were expected to work on behalf of their families, forgoing any educational or social opportunities. While child labor was persistant throughout agrarian economies, the efficiency and brutality of its industrialization led to a great moral outrage. This led to our modern conception of child labor, a concept that condemns work that deprives young people of a dignified childhood. Since 1918, industrialized countries have begun to combat child labor, making it illegal in most western states. However, child labor remains a common feature of the economy in most parts of the world.
In Pakistan, estimates suggest that nearly one quarter of the workers are under 10 years old. Despite numerous laws banning the practice, widespread neglect and economic necessity still force children into the workforce. No place is this more widespread than in the brick industry. All People Free is an organization that seeks to transition these children out of the workforce and into the classroom, and they need your help to do so. By giving these children an education, we hope to improve their social mobility, giving them opportunities outside of the brickyard. If enough of these children succeed, they can free their families from the brutal conditions of generational debt and wage slavery. There are numerous ways your support can aid this mission. |
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