Internationally Applied Mechanisms for Regulation of Child Labour

Abstract

The issue of child labour continues to be a global challenge that undermines children’s rights, education, and well-being. This paper reviews internationally applied mechanisms for regulating child labour by examining policies and practices adopted by countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, the Philippines, Brazil, and India. Each case reflects distinct historical, economic, and socio-political contexts that have shaped their approaches to child labour regulation. In developed nations like the UK and the US, legislative frameworks such as the Factory and Workshop Act of 1878 and the Keating-Owen Act of 1916 marked early milestones in abolishing child labour through education and legal reform. Developing nations such as the Philippines, Brazil, and India, on the other hand, face persistent challenges linked to poverty, lack of education, and social inequality. These nations have implemented multi-sectoral strategies involving international collaborations, community participation, and educational initiatives to curb child labour. Despite varying progress, the collective international effort underscores the importance of legislative enforcement, awareness, and socio-economic empowerment in achieving sustainable elimination of child labour. The study highlights that only through integrated approaches addressing poverty, education, and human rights can meaningful progress be achieved in eradicating child exploitation globally.