Erbil Authorities Intensify Efforts to End Child Labor on Streets
Yousef Chawshin, Director General of Social Welfare and Development in Erbil, told Kurdistan24 that a special committee has been monitoring children working in public areas for nearly two months.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The General Directorate of Welfare and Social Development in Erbil announced on Monday that child labor in streets and traffic areas will be banned, with dedicated committees continuing to investigate the issue.
Yousef Chawshin, Director General of Social Welfare and Development in Erbil, told Kurdistan24 that a special committee has been monitoring children working in public areas for nearly two months.
“So far, our researchers have completed 130 forms, each containing detailed information about the children,” Chawshin said. “The first phase of our work will be finalized in the coming days.”
According to Chawshin, the project is being implemented in four stages. Once the initial phase concludes, children will be categorized based on their circumstances, as many are compelled to work due to family hardships.
“We will visit the families directly to understand the reasons behind their children’s work,” he explained. “Families who force their children to work will face police penalties.”
Chawshin also stressed that cases involving child trafficking will be dealt with under the region’s anti-trafficking laws. “Anyone, including parents, who is found trafficking children will be arrested,” he warned.
Addressing child labor in Erbil is crucial for safeguarding the rights and well-being of vulnerable children. By taking these measures, authorities aim to provide children with the opportunity to pursue education and enjoy a safe, healthy childhood. Moreover, tackling child labor helps to alleviate poverty and improve the overall socioeconomic conditions of families in the region.
