Preface

This book is a response to the need for comprehensive and practical information on planning and carrying out action against child labour. It is based primarily on ILO experience, particularly its International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC). It is designed to assist governments, employers' and workers' organizations, non-governmental organizations, and all those who wish to contribute to the elimination of child labour.

The book addresses the strategies, instruments, methodologies and information necessary to plan and carry out effective action. It also highlights particular kinds of exploitation, such as child slavery, and suggests strategies for preventing and eliminating them. It makes it clear that comprehensive approaches are required for sustained success. Unilateral and uncoordinated efforts in the past have sometimes worsened the situation of the very children who were meant to be helped.

This publication is particularly timely as the member States of the ILO adopted a new Convention and Recommendation concerning the prohibition and immediate action for the elimination of the worst forms of child labour in June 1999. The Convention requires States to design and implement programmes of action to remove children from intolerable situations and provide for their rehabilitation and reintegration. It is hoped that this book will guide and inspire such action.

I would like to acknowledge and express my appreciation to the authors of each of the chapters of this book, who brought a range of knowledge and experience to the task. Nelien Haspels, Michele Jankanish and Victoria Rialp oversaw the entire project. Peter Tallon provided editorial assistance. I thank them all.

It is my sincere wish that the ideas in this book will lead to wider and more effective action in the fight against child labour.

Kari Tapiola,
Executive Director,
Standards and Fundamental Principles
and Rights at Work Sector,
International Labour Office