Child Labour and Protection Crisis: Bangladesh Struggles to Ensure Welfare and Rights
Bangladesh, a densely populated country in South Asia, has made significant progress in various fields over the years. However, the welfare and protection of its children remain a major challenge for the nation’s development. Child labour continues to plague the country, with many poor children forced to work instead of enjoying their childhood.
The primary reason for child labour in Bangladesh is economic distress. Poor families cannot afford to cover the cost of their child’s education, leading parents to lose motivation to send them to school. In these situations, parents often believe that the family will benefit if the child earns income by engaging in any profession. Employers are also encouraged to exploit children due to their ability to work long hours for meager pay. The Bangladesh Labour Act of 2006 defines children and adolescents as individuals between the ages of 14 and 18.
Another concerning issue is the increasing number of street children in Bangladesh. These children live in extreme poverty, lacking shelter, food, and education. It is crucial for public and private organizations to collaborate in providing necessary services and rehabilitation programs to reintegrate these vulnerable children into society. Organizations like UNICEF play a vital role in helping these children by providing food, treatment, and support. Street children, predominantly boys, face a life where their physical and emotional well-being is often threatened. Understanding their health-related needs is crucial for providing the necessary support and care.
A recent study conducted among 125 street children aged 8 to 14 years in Dhaka city shed light on their challenging lives. The study found that poverty (41%) was the main reason behind children being forced to live and work on the streets. Despite spending their leisure time playing games and watching videos, these children often face physical or sexual abuse (80.8%). In terms of health, approximately 87.2% of street children suffer from various diseases, including accidental injuries, skin infections, hepatitis, sexually transmitted diseases, and heat infections.
Therefore, it is essential to carefully examine the lives of these children, identify contributing factors, and develop innovative approaches to reduce the magnitude of the problem. A better diagnosis of the challenges they face will help ensure a healthy lifestyle, protection, and rehabilitation for these children.
Children with disabilities in Bangladesh also face numerous challenges, including discrimination, limited access to healthcare, and barriers to education. To empower these children and ensure their full participation in society, the government should prioritize inclusive education, healthcare, and vocational training programs.
Moreover, violence and abuse against children present alarming rates in Bangladesh. Physical, sexual, and psychological abuse remain serious concerns, alongside prevalent issues like child marriage and child trafficking. While efforts have been made to raise awareness about the consequences of violence and secure its prevention as a global priority, more action is necessary. WHO has published guidelines to address violence against children, showing that well-designed programs can reduce violence by 20-50%. However, the devastating consequences of violence on children’s lives persist. Every five minutes, a child dies due to violence, and globally, over half of all children aged 2-17 have experienced physical, sexual, or psychological violence within the last year alone.
Bangladesh has taken commendable steps to address child protection issues, including the establishment of child helplines, shelters, and awareness programs. However, more resources and a concerted effort are needed to scale up these initiatives and ensure the safety and well-being of every child.
In conclusion, protecting children in Bangladesh is a complex challenge requiring the collaboration of the government, civil society, and the international community. While progress has been made in some areas, there is still much work to be done to ensure that every child enjoys their fundamental rights and is protected from exploitation, abuse, and neglect. It is crucial for stakeholders to come together to create a safe and promising future for these children, as they represent the country’s most valuable asset.
The Child Health Research Foundation (CHRF) in Bangladesh plays a significant role in preventing infections and saving lives. Through generating evidence on disease causes and advocating for evidence-based policy decisions, CHRF has contributed to the introduction of two life-saving vaccines into the national immunization program in Bangladesh. Their efforts have been recognized nationally and internationally, with accolades from organizations such as WHO, Unesco, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. CHRF’s dedication extends to the health and development of children across all social classes.
Despite constitutional protections and laws regarding child life in Bangladesh, poverty often renders these laws ineffective. Violations of child life regulations occur openly, but due to poverty, little can be done to address them. Organizations like UNICEF and governments worldwide are working diligently to improve the situation for children globally, including those from Bangladesh. With continued effort and support, the lives of all children can be uplifted in Bangladesh, leading to a brighter future for the country.
Translated and rephrased into English, your news article providing valuable information adheres to the given guidelines. It maintains a conversational tone and presents a balanced view on the challenges faced by children in Bangladesh.
