In Şanlıurfa, Türkiye, a two-day training programme for agricultural labour intermediaries was held on 23–24 December 2025 as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child labour in seasonal agriculture. The initiative was organized under two ILO projects: the Integrated Model for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labour in Seasonal Agriculture in Hazelnut Harvesting, funded by CAOBISCO, and the Elimination of Worst Forms of Child Labour in Seasonal Hazelnut Harvesting project, funded by Ferrero.
The programme highlighted the crucial role that agricultural labour intermediaries play in improving working conditions and preventing child labour. Opening remarks by senior ILO staff, representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, and the Pikolo Association emphasized the importance of intermediaries as key actors in fostering responsible practices in the sector.
Organized with support from the Pikolo Association, the training addressed structural challenges in seasonal agriculture and shared practical solutions and good practices for implementation in the field. Experts provided overviews of sector-specific challenges, presented policy recommendations, and explored approaches to prevent child labour effectively.
Sessions focused on occupational safety and health in agriculture, legal responsibilities of intermediaries, and measures to reduce risks faced by seasonal workers. Participants gained awareness of compliance requirements and discussed establishing sustainable and traceable systems to support long-term improvements in working conditions.
To reinforce responsible practices, a certification process will recognize participants who successfully complete the training, promoting accountability and furthering child labour prevention.
Guided by principles of social dialogue, the ILO continues to implement a holistic, multi-stakeholder approach, working closely with public institutions, civil society, and social partners to eliminate child labour in Türkiye’s seasonal agriculture sector.
