The problem of child labour affects many societies across the globe albeit in varying degrees. However, it seems to be more prevalent in poor and developing countries but recent statistics show that the problem is on the decline globally.But not all work done by children should be classified as child labour that is to be targeted for elimination. Children’s or adolescents’ participation in work that does not affect their health and personal development or interfere with their schooling is generally regarded as being something positive. This includes activities such as helping their parents around the home, assisting in a family business or earning pocket money outside school hours and during school holidays. These kinds of activities contribute to children’s development and to the welfare of their families; they provide them with skills and experience, and help to prepare them to be productive members of society during their adult life.
According to the Global March Against Child Labour (GMACL) The global number of child labourers in the age group 5-17 decreased from 246 million in 2000 to 218 million in 2004, a decrease of 11 per cent. The percentage of child labourers in this age group went down from 16 per cent (1 in 6) in 2000 to 14 per cent (1 in 7) in 2004.
The number of children aged 5-17 engaged in hazardous work has declined by 26 per cent, from 171 million in 2000 to 126 million in 2004. With 33 per cent, the decline in the age group 5-14 has even been sharper.
Latin America and the Caribbean stand out in terms of a rapid decline of child labour. The number of children at work in the region has fallen by two-thirds over the last four years, with just 5 per cent of children ages 5-14 now engaged in work.
The experts point out that in its most extreme forms, child labour involves children being enslaved, separated from their families, exposed to serious hazards and illnesses and/or left to fend for themselves on the streets of large cities – often at a very early age. Whether or not particular forms of “work” can be called “child labour” depends on the child’s age, the type and hours of work performed, the conditions under which it is performed and the objectives pursued by individual countries. The answer varies from country to country, as well as among sectors within countries.
While undoubtedly there is a link between poverty and child labour it is not the only cause as GMACL points out: “Admittedly, most child labourers come from poor families. However, poverty is not the only reason children work, nor is it as central as many people think. Recent studies examining the role poverty plays in child labour have found that other factors, such as parents’ low regard for the education of children, particularly girls, and failing education systems contribute equally to child labour. Too often poverty is used as an excuse for child labour. Yet, it is a myth that child labour will never be eliminated until poverty is eradicated. Conversely, poverty will never be eradicated until child labourers are redirected to schools. Child labour perpetuates poverty. “

It further observed that while economic development tends to reduce child labour in the long run, poverty does not necessarily induce child labour or hinder children from attending school. The picture varies. In many poor households, some children (particularly boys) are singled out to attend school. Additionally, there are states within less developed countries where child labour is not extensively practiced. For instance, Kerala State in India has virtually abolished child labour.
In Guyana while the problem exists it is not a major one and commendable steps have been taken to tackle it. The most recent one being the TACKLE (Tackling Child Labour through Education) is a joint programme between the Education and Labour, Human Services and Social Security ministries with support from the European Union (EU).
It was launched as part of this country’s week of activities for World Day against Child Labour.
Children, youth groups and others marched symbolically against child labour Saturday.
Guyana’s observances culminated with a rally after the march Saturday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, Georgetown. Rallies were also held in Regions Three and Six.