Qatar recently participated in an Arab workshop focused on the impact of current economic conditions on child labour in Arab countries. The workshop was organized by the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States in collaboration with the Arab Council for Childhood and Development, the Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND), and the Arab Labour Organization. The event saw the attendance of various representatives including Amna Abdulrahman Al Sulaiti from the Permanent Delegation of Qatar to the Arab League, as well as individuals from national mechanisms concerned with childhood, ministries of labour, employers, workers organizations, and experts from relevant international, regional, and national organizations.
The main objective of the workshop was to analyze the effects of the global economic crisis on the volume and patterns of child labour in Arab countries. This was done through discussions on various topics such as child labour in Arab nations, the correlation between poverty and child labour, sustainable development goals, and child labour protection in the context of the economic crisis. Ambassador Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Social Affairs Sector at the Arab League, emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of child labour as a violation of children’s rights. The workshop was seen as a continuation of efforts initiated by the League in partnership with regional and international entities, as outlined in the study ‘Child Labour in Arab Countries’ from 2019.
The workshop served as a platform for participants to share insights and best practices in combating child labour within the Arab region. It provided an opportunity for stakeholders to assess the current situation, exchange ideas, and collaborate on strategies to eliminate child labour. By bringing together representatives from various sectors and organizations, the workshop aimed to foster a holistic approach towards addressing the root causes of child labour and ensuring the protection and well-being of children. The discussions also emphasized the importance of implementing effective policies and mechanisms to prevent child labour and promote sustainable development in the region.
Qatar’s involvement in the workshop highlights its commitment to combating child labour and promoting the rights of children within the Arab world. By actively participating in discussions and initiatives focused on child labour, Qatar demonstrates its dedication to working alongside other Arab countries and international partners to address this pressing issue. The workshop provided a valuable opportunity for Qatar to contribute its expertise and experiences in addressing child labour, while also learning from the experiences of others in the region. Through partnerships and collaborations with like-minded entities, Qatar can further strengthen its efforts to eliminate child labour and create a safer and more prosperous environment for children in the Arab region.
In conclusion, the Arab workshop on the impact of economic conditions on child labour in Arab countries served as a valuable platform for stakeholders to come together, exchange ideas, and collaborate on strategies to combat child labour. The event highlighted the importance of addressing the root causes of child labour, protecting children’s rights, and promoting sustainable development within the Arab region. Qatar’s participation in the workshop reaffirms its commitment to addressing child labour and working towards a future where all children can thrive and reach their full potential. By joining forces with other Arab nations and international partners, Qatar can contribute to the collective efforts to eradicate child labour and create a better future for the region’s children.