UNICEF: ‘Syrian Children Should be at School not at Work’

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The United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has drawn attention to Syrian Children engaged in child labour in Turkey and its negative effects noting; “Children must not be robbed of their childhood”.  

According to the statement “field observations and available information show that Syrian children are engaged in some of the worst forms of child labour through seasonal agriculture, small-medium enterprises (textile or shoe workshops or auto-mechanics), and working on the streets. Turkish children engaged in child labour also work in the same sectors”.

The organization has warned that “the persistence of child labour poses a serious threat to children’s wellbeing and has severe negative short- and long-term consequences for the fulfillment of their rights, as guaranteed by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. These rights include protection from economic exploitation, denial of education and exposure to violence”.

Philippe Duamelle, UNICEF Representative in Turkey declared, “In all circumstances, Syrian children also should be protected from child labour. They should be able to go to school to prepare better for their future and to rebuild their country as soon as it will be possible. Children must not be robbed of their childhood”.

Children cannot be protected

UNICEF has pointed out to the harms of child labour on the mental, social, physical and psychological development of children. “For little pay, children work long hours, in close contact with toxic products and/or hazardous environments to contribute to their family income. This situation holds them back from going to school, spending time with peers, having opportunities for play and leisure and being protected from abuse and neglect”.

The organization has added that, “There are no statistics available on children engaged in child labour among the Syrian population living under temporary protection in Turkey. However, currently more than half a million Syrian children of school age are estimated to be out of school. Besides a lack of easy access to schools, there are often socio-economic barriers hindering children and adolescents to go to school”.

A holistic political view needed

With regards to the problem of child labour in Turkey, UNICEF has expressed that they would advocate for a holistic programme addressed to all children from Turkey, Syria and other countries. The supported exercises have been listed as;

 * “Addressing poverty by building social safety nets for the most vulnerable Syrian families, complemented by additional education incentives, and by increasing opportunities for adults to access formal and decent work and other income generating activities.

* “Access and quality of education should be supported by accelerating formal schooling opportunities for all ages, as well as non-formal educational opportunities.

* “Business principles should be revisited to ensure child labour free production all along the supply chain”. (YY/DG)

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