Md. Anisur rahman

Poverty is a fundamental catalyst for child labour in Bangladesh, as families grappling with economic hardship frequently resort to every available means to sustain their households.

In many cases, parents find themselves compelled to send their children into the workforce as an essential source of supplementary income. This dire economic necessity often leaves families with little choice but to rely on the labour of their children. This situation, thereby, perpetuates a cycle of intergenerational poverty and exploitation.

The economic landscape of the country is getting increasingly challenging day by day, which makes even a basic meal a daunting task for many. In such dire circumstances, working becomes the only means of survival. Education, once seen as a pathway to opportunity, has now become a luxury beyond the reach of the majority, practically reserved only for the affluent.

The relentless grip of extreme poverty is steadily exacerbating this disparity, pushing more individuals into a cycle where education remains an unattainable dream.

Many parents find themselves disillusioned with the employment prospects within the country, as they witness first-hand the limited opportunities available even after completing graduation or post-graduation. The harsh reality of the job market often fails to meet the needs of families, leaving them financially strained and unable to adequately provide for their beloved ones.

Faced with this grim outlook, parents reluctantly opt to train their children for various occupations from a young age.

The scarcity of educational opportunities compels numerous children enter the workforce prematurely. Factors such as elevated dropout rates, deficient school infrastructure, and the financial burden associated with education compound this issue. The absence of accessible education diminishes children's prospects for personal and professional growth, ensnaring them in a cycle of destitution and vulnerability to exploitation.

Bangladesh's legal framework aimed at safeguarding children from exploitation and regulating child labour exists; however, its enforcement remains feeble due to various reasons. Consequently, employers can exploit children with impunity, knowing that the likelihood of facing consequences is minimal. This lack of effective enforcement perpetuates a cycle of abuse and exploitation, undermining the rights and well-being of vulnerable children.

Bangladesh stands as one of the world's most densely populated nations, a factor that intensifies poverty and engenders fierce competition for resources.

In this challenging environment, families often find themselves compelled to resort to child labour as a vital means of survival. The pressure exerted by overpopulation amplifies socioeconomic strains, further constraining opportunities for families to escape poverty and fostering a reliance on child labour to meet basic needs.

Within the cohort of child labourers, a significant portion comprises street children who endure a life devoid of parental supervision, often without even knowing their parents' identities. Many of these children are products of broken homes, abandoned by parents due to divorce or the death of guardians.

Tragically, without familial support or guidance, these children are left with no recourse but to join the workforce as a means of survival. Compounding their plight is the absence of provisions or support systems tailored to address the unique needs of street children.

Ensuring the well-being and proper upbringing of children, who represent the future leaders of a nation, is imperative. From children residing in remote villages to those navigating the streets without parental guidance, every child deserves meticulous supervision and care to safeguard their educational pursuits.

It is essential to create a nurturing environment where children are supported in their educational journey and are not forced into premature employment. By expanding employment opportunities and fostering an environment where parents feel assured in their ability to provide for their children's education, we can cultivate a society where every child has the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to the nation's future.

Relying solely on government intervention for addressing the issue of child labour is not wise. It is imperative for individuals from all walks of life to step forward and actively engage in efforts to mitigate this pervasive problem. Community leaders, civil society organisations, businesses, educators, and concerned citizens must collaborate to develop comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of child labour and create supportive environments for children's education and well-being.
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The writer is an Assistant Professor of Englilsh, Principal Kazi Faruky College, Lakshmipur.
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