Child Labor Facts

Child Labor Facts

The facts about child labor show that it is a far-reaching and growing problem, especially for children living in poverty. Because children don’t have a voice or a platform, they are extra vulnerable to those who are looking to abuse them. Get the facts about child labor around the world and see how you can make a difference.

Child labor is an especially big issue in developing countries. One of the most astounding facts about child labor is that more than 15% of children between the ages of 5 and 14 in developing countries are involved in some form of child labor.

Compassion is working through its sponsorship programs around the world to change these child labor facts. When you sponsor a child with Compassion, your sponsorship provides a way for him to attend school and also provides basic necessities for his family so he doesn’t have to work.

Learn the facts about child labor. It’s a heartbreaking reality that must be stopped. Then do something to stop it: sponsor a child with Compassion today.

Child Labor Facts
Child Labor Facts Get the facts about child labor and how it affects impoverished children and their families.
  • One in six children 5 to 14 years old — about 16 percent of all children in this age group — is involved in child labor in developing countries.
  • In the least developed countries, 30 percent of all children are engaged in child labor.
  • Worldwide, 126 million children work in hazardous conditions, often enduring beatings, humiliation and sexual violence by their employers.
  • An estimated 1.2 million children — both boys and girls — are trafficked each year into exploitative work in agriculture, mining, factories, armed conflict or commercial sex work.
  • The highest proportion of child laborers is in sub-Saharan Africa, where 26 percent of children (49 million) are involved in work.