China Labour Bulletin appears in the following article. Copyright remains with the original publisher.
The problems of forced labour in China have been known about for some time. It now appears that there is a growing issue around the use of child labour. A report from the China Labour Bulletin argues that a combination of poverty, weak laws, and defects in the education system are allowing the practice to flourish.
In its report CLB called on the Chinese authorities “to strengthen enforcement against using children, boost education spending and allow non-government organisations a freer hand to help child workers”. Widespread poverty in much of China is also believed to be contributing to the problem.
So far, the Chinese authorities have refused to comment on the report. However, it is likely to add to the woes facing the International Olympic Committee and those companies involved in next year’s Olympic Games.
The problems of forced labour in China have been known about for some time. It now appears that there is a growing issue around the use of child labour. A report from the China Labour Bulletin argues that a combination of poverty, weak laws, and defects in the education system are allowing the practice to flourish.
In its report CLB called on the Chinese authorities “to strengthen enforcement against using children, boost education spending and allow non-government organisations a freer hand to help child workers”. Widespread poverty in much of China is also believed to be contributing to the problem.
So far, the Chinese authorities have refused to comment on the report. However, it is likely to add to the woes facing the International Olympic Committee and those companies involved in next year’s Olympic Games.