Oppressive child labor refers to the exploitation of children in jobs that jeopardize their well-being, safety, or ethical values. Examples of such labor include working in factories, being subjected to trafficking or forced labor, engaging in prostitution or drug trafficking. The employment of children under 16 years old in any occupation, or those aged 16 to 18 in particularly dangerous jobs, is strictly prohibited by law. Violations can result in fines of up to $10,000 per offence. This form of labor is commonly referred to as harmful child labor.
Oppressive child labor is the exploitation of workers under the age of majority, involving abusive practices that endanger their health, safety, or morals. This includes exploitative factory work, slavery, sale, and trafficking of children, forced or compulsory labor such as debt bondage and serfdom, and the use of children in activities like prostitution, pornography, and drug-trafficking. Some writers define oppressive child labor as activities prohibited by the International Labor Organization’s minimum-age conventions. For example, hiring children under 16 to work long hours in dangerous conditions without proper safety equipment or forcing a child to work as a prostitute or drug trafficker would be considered oppressive child labor. The Fair Labor Standards Act prohibits the employment of workers under 16 in any occupation and those 16 to 18 in particularly hazardous occupations, with civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation. Overall, oppressive child labor is a serious violation of human rights and must be eliminated to ensure the well-being of children worldwide.
Oppressive child labor refers to any work that is mentally, physically, socially, or morally dangerous and harmful to children, and interferes with their education and development.
Laws regarding child labor vary by state and country, but generally, they prohibit children from working in hazardous conditions and set limits on the hours and types of work they can perform.
Employers who engage in oppressive child labor can face fines, legal action, and even imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation.
You can report oppressive child labor to the appropriate government agency, such as the Department of Labor or a local child welfare organisation.
Signs of oppressive child labor include children working in hazardous conditions, working long hours, and being deprived of education and basic needs.
Laws regarding children working in family businesses or on family farms vary, but they often have exemptions or special rules for these situations.
Minimum age requirements for children to work vary by state and country, but they are typically around 14-16 years old.
Children can work in entertainment or performing arts, but there are specific regulations and protections in place to ensure their safety and well-being.
Parents are responsible for ensuring their children are not engaged in oppressive child labor and are receiving an education and proper care.
You can support efforts to end oppressive child labor by advocating for stronger laws and regulations, supporting organisations that work to protect children’s rights, and raising awareness about the issue.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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