World Day Against Child Labor

Today is the World Day Against Child Labor. On Wednesday, US Department of Labor Secretary, Hilda Solis held a roundtable event to talk about child labor, particularly the vulnerability of girls to the worst forms of child labor like domestic servitude, commercial sexual exploitation, trafficking, and so many other deplorable forms. My office organized the event and it went really, really well. It was such a great event to be a part of. Today President Obama issued a statement to recognize the World Day that made me extremely proud.

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

__________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 12, 2009

Statement by President Barack Obama on World Day Against Child Labor

Even in this modern era, children around the world are forced to work in deplorable and often dangerous conditions at a time in their lives when they should be in classrooms and playgrounds. Global child labor perpetuates a cycle of poverty that prevents families and nations from reaching their full potential. That’s why, earlier this week, Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis reaffirmed my Administration’s commitment to this issue by announcing $60 million to fight child labor.

I also find it fitting that this year’s World Day Against Child Labor focuses on drawing attention to the particular plight young girls face. Of the 218 million child laborers worldwide, 100 million are girls – more than half of whom are exposed to hazardous work. That’s unacceptable, and this world cannot allow it. We must stand united in opposition to child labor and recommit ourselves to ending this practice in all its forms – today and every day.

World Day 2009: Give girls a chance: End child labour - World Day Against Child Labour - 12 June - Campaign and advocacy