Marrakech, Feb. 12 (SANA) A Syrian delegation is participating in the 6th Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour, taking place in Marrakech, Morocco, from Feb. 11 to 13.
The delegation from the General Federation of Trade Unions, headed by its president Fawaz al-Ahmad, joined more than 1,000 representatives from the 187 member states of the International Labour Organization (ILO), along with other international organizations.
The conference is focusing on strategies to combat child labour, particularly in the agricultural sector, and on facilitating the transition to formal employment. Discussions are also emphasizing child protection and access to education.
Al-Ahmad said protecting children is a shared national responsibility and that sustainable development cannot be built on the exploitation of minors or the denial of their right to education and a decent life.
He called for trade unions to play a role in drafting legislation and programs aimed at eliminating child labour, and for stronger social dialogue between governments, employers and unions to achieve long-term solutions. He also stressed the importance of social protection for low-income families, fair employment opportunities for household heads and greater investment in education.
The three-day conference is also examining the role of civil society organizations in developing coordinated and sustainable strategies, as well as the importance of regional cooperation in ending child labour.
The International Labour Organization, founded in 1919, has 187 member states and serves as the United Nations’ specialized agency for labour issues.
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