Bangladesh is witnessing a sharp rise in child labour and dangerous levels of lead exposure among young children, according to the preliminary findings of the Bangladesh Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2025 released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) in partnership with UNICEF.

The nationwide survey—covering nearly 63,000 households and 199 indicators—reveals that 1.2 million more children are now engaged in child labour compared to 2019.

Child labour has increased from 6.8% to 9.2% of children aged 5-17, exposing millions to exploitation and long-term harm.

Lead poisoning has emerged as one of the most severe threats. Thirty-eight percent of children aged 12–59 months and 8% of pregnant women now have blood lead levels above safe limits. Dhaka shows the highest burden, with 65% of children affected.

UNICEF warns that lead exposure can permanently damage brain development, affecting children across both wealthy and low-income families.

“This survey captures both progress and deepening challenges,” said Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh. “Declines in child marriage and child mortality show what’s possible.

But the surge in child labour, toxic lead exposure, rising malnutrition, and extreme C-section rates demand urgent, targeted action.”

The findings paint a mixed picture. While institutional deliveries, skilled birth attendance, and maternal health services have expanded, severe gaps persist.

Wasting has increased from 9.8 to 12.9%, maternal anemia remains at 52.8%, and adolescent births have climbed to 92 per thousand girls. Early antenatal care is still out of reach for most women, with only 46% receiving care in the first four months of pregnancy.

Child protection indicators remain troubling. Despite a small improvement, 47% of girls are still married before 18. Violence is widespread, with 86% of children experiencing violent discipline.

Only 47% of children under five have a birth certificate, leaving many without basic legal identity.

Water and sanitation challenges continue to endanger public health. Access to safely managed drinking water has dropped to 39.3%, with half of water sources and over 80% of households contaminated with E. coli. Climate-related hazards affected more than 10 percent of water sources last year.

Education shows persistent learning gaps. Primary enrollment stands at 80%, but attendance declines sharply in secondary grades, and 6–7% of children remain out of school. Many complete primary school without mastering foundational skills.

UNICEF and BBS stressed that investment in child protection, health, and nutrition yields high returns—every dollar invested can generate ninefold social and economic benefits. The MICS 2025 data, officials said, must now drive policy reforms that ensure no child is left behind.