Around 10 million children in Pakistan are reportedly out of school and engaged in labour instead of education, with a significant number working in hazardous conditions, according to a report citing UNICEF and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP).

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Boys more affected in informal and hazardous work Poverty identified as root cause

The report states that more than 8 million children in the country are involved in child labour, while over 6 million are working in environments classified as highly dangerous. Poverty has been identified as the main driving factor behind this growing crisis, particularly affecting low-income and less educated families.

Boys more affected in informal and hazardous work

Data cited in the report suggests that boys make up a larger share of child labourers compared to girls. Many of these children are employed in agriculture, workshops, and informal household-based work.

A large number of children are also reportedly engaged in long working hours, leading to physical exhaustion and exposure to unsafe conditions, while remaining outside the formal education system.

Poverty identified as root cause

The report highlights poverty as the central reason behind the widespread prevalence of child labour in Pakistan. Economically vulnerable households are often forced to rely on their children’s income for survival.

Experts warn that child labour not only violates children’s rights but also has long-term consequences on their physical health, mental well-being, and future opportunities.

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