Arab Organizations Demand Child Protection, Laud Doha Summit Outcomes

The Arab League, the Arab Labour Organization, the Arab Council for Childhood and Development, and the Gulf Program for Development (AGFUND) today called for the protection of children in Palestine and the Middle East. These organizations also praised the outcomes of the World Summit for Social Development, which was held in Doha last year. The organizations specifically commended the results of the Second World Summit for Social Development, held in Doha in 2025, particularly noting the Doha Political Declaration.

Child Labour Crisis Deepens

Concerns are escalating in the Arab region regarding the growing prevalence of child labour, attributed to a combination of crises, regional conflict, prolonged instability, displacement, economic decline, multidimensional poverty, the expansion of the informal economy, deteriorating educational standards, inadequate social protection systems, and fewer decent work opportunities. The organizations affirmed that the elimination of child labour is a moral and developmental commitment that must not be delayed, stressing that children should not be victims of poverty, conflicts, or structural imbalances. They advocated for improving decent work opportunities for adults and youth to ensure dignified family incomes and alleviate economic pressures that compel children into early entry into the labour market. The organizations also showed the necessity of activating and enforcing national legislation that aligns with Arab and international standards, including establishing a minimum working age, prohibiting the worst forms of child labour, and instituting legal frameworks for digital protection and safe technology use.

Grave Situation in Palestine

Children in the occupied Palestinian territories, especially in the Gaza Strip, face severe violations of their rights due to what organizations describe as a 'genocidal war' by the occupation. This situation includes siege, displacement, and deprivation of essential resources like food, shelter, education, and healthcare, constituting an unprecedented humanitarian setback.

Palestinian children endure daily threats to their right to life, a loss of social protection, and interrupted education. They are also exposed to exploitation and dangerous work. Organizations stress the necessity for urgent and effective international action to ensure their protection, halt ongoing violations, and safeguard their rights under international humanitarian law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Praise for International Declarations

The Arab organizations also expressed praise for the outcomes of the Sixth World Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour, held in Marrakech in 2026. They specifically commended the Marrakech Framework for Action against Child Labour, recognizing its significance in global efforts to combat child exploitation. This acknowledgment aligns with the broader calls from these organizations for enhanced child protection measures across the Arab region and internationally, emphasizing collective action against child labor. Their statements show the importance of international agreements and frameworks in addressing the multifaceted challenges children face.

Call for Urgent Action

The International Day Against Child Labour is observed annually on June 12th. This observance serves as a global reminder of the persistent challenges in eradicating child labour and mobilizing governmental and societal efforts to protect children's rights. Organizations consistently use this day to advocate for strengthened policies and increased resources aimed at preventing children from engaging in hazardous work and ensuring their access to education and safe environments. The annual recognition shows the ongoing commitment required from all stakeholders to achieve the elimination of child labour worldwide.