A new report has revealed the alarming scale of Child Labour in Pakistan, showing that more than 8.6 million children across the country are currently engaged in work. The study, jointly released by the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) and UNICEF, highlights growing concerns about children’s welfare, education, and future opportunities.
According to the findings, over 6.6 million children are involved in hazardous labour that exposes them to dangerous conditions and serious health risks. Researchers warn that many of these children face physical injuries, emotional stress, and limited access to education due to demanding work environments.
The report identifies Punjab as the province with the highest number of working children. More than 6 million children in the province are engaged in labour, making it the most affected region in the country. The findings underscore the scale of the challenge facing policymakers and child protection authorities.
Sindh recorded the second-highest number of child labourers, with approximately 1.61 million children involved in work. In addition, over 745,000 children were reported to be working in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while more than 201,000 cases were identified in Balochistan. Islamabad also reported thousands of working children.
Researchers identified poverty as the primary factor driving Child Labour in Pakistan. Many families facing financial hardship rely on children to contribute to household income. Low parental education levels and limited employment opportunities further increase the likelihood of children entering the workforce at an early age.
The report also notes that much of the child labour occurs in homes, farms, and family-run businesses. Because these workplaces often operate outside formal monitoring systems, child labour can remain hidden and difficult to regulate. This creates challenges for enforcement agencies and child welfare organizations.
Speaking at the report’s launch, Federal Minister for Human Rights Azam Nazeer Tarar emphasized the need for collective action to address the issue. Experts say reducing Child Labour in Pakistan will require stronger policies, poverty reduction measures, improved educational access, and coordinated efforts to protect children’s rights and future prospects.
