International organizations and government stakeholders have renewed calls for stronger coordination to eliminate child labour, as the International Labour Organization (ILO), UNICEF, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) convened a high-level roundtable in Türkiye to mark the World Day Against Child Labour on June 10, 2026.
The meeting, held in Ankara, brought together representatives from government institutions, employers’ and workers’ organizations, UN agencies, civil society, and academia. Discussions focused on accelerating implementation of global commitments and strengthening integrated national strategies to end child labour, particularly in line with international labour standards and the Sustainable Development Goals.
UN officials emphasized that child labour remains a persistent global challenge despite progress in recent years. Speakers highlighted that eliminating child labour requires not only legal frameworks but also effective enforcement, improved social protection systems, and expanded access to education. The UN Resident Coordinator in Türkiye stressed that every child has the right to learn, be protected, and develop their full potential, linking child protection efforts directly to long-term sustainable development outcomes.
The roundtable, titled “Accelerating Action to End Child Labour: From Commitment to Integrated and Coordinated Action,” focused on translating global frameworks such as the Marrakech Framework for Action into practical national policies. ILO representatives underscored that hazardous work remains one of the most severe forms of child labour and continues to affect vulnerable children across sectors.
A key theme of the discussions was prevention through strengthened social protection systems. Experts noted that addressing poverty and improving household resilience are critical to reducing child labour risks. The ILO also reiterated the importance of core conventions on minimum age and the worst forms of child labour as foundational legal instruments guiding national action.
Participants further highlighted the growing complexity of child labour in the digital era, warning that technology can introduce new risks, including online exploitation. At the same time, digital tools were recognized as potential enablers for better monitoring, awareness, and enforcement if properly regulated and aligned with child rights protections.
Government representatives from Türkiye reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating child labour through coordinated national strategies, referencing ongoing policy frameworks such as the National Employment Strategy 2025–2028. The strategy emphasizes inclusive employment, skills development, rural economic opportunities, and green and digital transformation as part of broader labour market reforms.
The event also emphasized the importance of social dialogue, with employers’ and workers’ organizations playing a central role in shaping policies and ensuring effective implementation. Representatives from multiple sectors, including agriculture, education, and labour institutions, contributed to discussions on strengthening rural development, improving family livelihoods, and supporting sustainable income opportunities.
The roundtable concluded with a symbolic gesture of solidarity, as participants raised red cards to child labour, reinforcing the global campaign to accelerate action toward its elimination. The meeting underscored a shared commitment among international agencies and national stakeholders to move from policy commitments to measurable, coordinated action.
