South Sudan’s Child Labour Crisis: Key Findings
A devastating new report reveals that nearly two-thirds (64%) of children aged 5-17 in South Sudan are engaged in child labour. Released by NGOs and the International Labour Organization (ILO), the study highlights how conflict, extreme poverty, and education gaps force children into hazardous work, threatening their futures.
Why Are So Many South Sudanese Children Working?
1. Extreme Poverty & Survival Needs
With 80% of South Sudanese living below the poverty line, families rely on child labour for survival. Children work in mining, farming, or exploitative domestic roles, often for no pay.
2. War & Displacement
Decades of civil war have destroyed livelihoods and displaced millions. Children in conflict zones face forced recruitment by armed groups or trafficking.
3. Education Collapse
Only 35% of children attend primary school—one of the world’s lowest rates. Schools are closed due to violence, teacher shortages, or lack of infrastructure.
4. Weak Laws & Cultural Norms
Child labour is normalized in rural communities, and enforcement of protection laws is minimal due to corruption and instability.
The Consequences: Stolen Childhoods
- Physical harm from dangerous work (mining, heavy labor).
- Psychological trauma due to abuse and exploitation.
- Lost education, perpetuating generational poverty.
- Girls at higher risk of early marriage and sexual violence.
Solutions: How to Protect South Sudan’s Children
- Stronger laws: Enforce and expand child labour bans.
- Education investment: Build schools, train teachers, provide free meals.
- Economic support: Aid programs for families to reduce reliance on child labour.
- Global action: UNICEF and ILO urge funding for child protection initiatives.
A Call to Action
South Sudan’s crisis reflects broader global failures. Without intervention, millions of children will remain trapped in exploitation. The time to act is now.
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