Benin: the government calls for a sacred union against child labor

Through an official statement, the Beninese executive calls for a concerted mobilization of all sectors of society for the gradual elimination of all forms of work that jeopardize the education, health, development, and dignity of children across the national territory.

This commemoration falls under the international theme: “Red card to child labour: a protected childhood, decent work for adults.” This slogan reminds us of an essential structural truth, namely that the eradication of this social scourge inevitably requires strengthening the social protection of families, universal access to quality education, and the promotion of decent job opportunities for parents, in order to break the cycle of poverty.

An alarming finding based on statistical data

Despite global and national efforts, the situation for minors remains concerning. Data from the MICS 2022 survey highlights the harsh realities on the ground, indicating that, statistically, 19.9% of children aged 5 to 17 are still in work situations in Benin. These figures underscore the urgency and continuous strengthening of preventive, protective, and judicial or social support actions initiated by the state.

Under the leadership of President Romuald Wadagni, the Beninese government has made the protection of children and the enhancement of human capital absolute national priorities. Significant reforms are currently being carried out in synergy with technical and financial partners, employer and worker organizations, as well as civil society.

These initiatives translate into the extension of social safety nets, the improvement of educational infrastructure, active efforts against poverty, and the rigorous application of legal texts punishing the exploitation of minors.

A call for collective responsibility from citizens

Although significant progress has been made in several sectors, the minister emphasized that considerable challenges remain. To ensure that every child has a protective environment in which they can grow, learn, and fully develop, the involvement of the state apparatus is not enough; it requires ongoing civic vigilance.

The official statement stresses the collective and direct responsibility of all components of the nation: parents, employers, community and religious leaders, as well as labor actors. Everyone is urged to systematically report situations of exploitation and to promote strict respect for the fundamental rights of children in all living environments, in order to provide every young Beninese with the opportunities necessary to achieve their full potential.