Child Labour Still Traps 1.79 Million Children in Bangladesh, Stakeholders Demand Stronger Action

Dhaka, June 11, 2026 —

Marking the World Day Against Child Labour 2026, the Bangladesh Labour Foundation (BLF) organized a human chain and rally in front of the National Press Club, urging stronger collective efforts to eliminate child labour and ensure decent working conditions across the country.

Held under the theme “Say No to Child Labour, Ensure Decent Working Conditions,” the event brought together representatives from government agencies, labour organizations, employers’ associations, the International Labour Organization (ILO), civil society groups, and development partners.

According to data highlighted during the programme, around 1.79 million children aged 5 to 17 are engaged in labour in Bangladesh, with approximately 1.07 million working in hazardous conditions that threaten their health, safety, and development. Globally, an estimated 138 million children remain trapped in child labour, including 54 million in hazardous work.

Speakers stressed that poverty, lack of social protection, and limited access to quality education continue to push children into the workforce. They called for stronger enforcement of labour laws, expansion of social safety net programmes, and greater investment in technical and vocational education.

Representatives from the ILO emphasized that child labour cannot be eliminated without ensuring decent jobs and fair wages for parents, alongside quality education and social protection for vulnerable families.

BLF Executive Director AKM Ashraf Uddin described child labour as one of the most pressing human rights challenges facing Bangladesh and the world, urging stakeholders to strengthen efforts to create child labour-free supply chains and expand opportunities for skills-based education.

The event also highlighted Bangladesh’s commitment under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eliminate all forms of child labour by 2030. As part of the observance, BLF has launched a 12-day nationwide awareness campaign aimed at mobilizing public support and reinforcing commitments toward a child labour-free Bangladesh.

Concluding the programme, speakers called for a united effort from government, employers, trade unions, civil society, and development partners to ensure that every child enjoys a safe childhood, quality education, and a future free from exploitation.