G20 Must Deliver for the Most Vulnerable

G20 leaders must address the abuse and loss of childhood that faces the world’s 168 million child labourers, says international children’s charity World Vision.

Ahead of the Brisbane G20 Leaders’ Summit, World Vision is warning global policy-makers that children are at risk of being exploited amid the drive for economic growth.

David Thomson, World Vision UK’s Director of Policy and Programmes, said: “Many companies are faced with persistent pressure to generate profit and produce goods at the lowest possible price. We should all be aware that chid labour could be lurking somewhere in the process.

“Children living in extreme poverty are the most vulnerable, and they must not be forgotten when shaping the world’s economy.” 

In a World Vision report earlier this year – entitled Creating Markets for Child-Friendly Growth – the charity sets out a roadmap for G20 leaders to address the issues facing children. 

World Vision International Global Policy Director Kirsty Nowlan said G20 nations represent 85 per cent of global GDP, and are ideally placed to challenge the economic drivers which encourage child labour exploitation.

Dr Nowlan said: “Economies which turn a blind eye to the exploitation of children are condemning individuals, families and communities to a bleak future. They are bypassing opportunities to improve job prospects for older youth and adults, depressing adult wages and standing by while tens of millions of children are excluded from developing to their potential.”

The report sets out the need for a common approach to identifying, reporting and addressing child labour in the value chains of the £5to £8 trillion worth of goods and services that G20 governments are expected to purchase in 2014.

World Vision is also calling on the G20 to include developing nations in the formulation and rollout of economic reforms which boost inclusive growth.

A strong commitment to global tax reform which would improve the ability of developing nation governments to provide basic services for their citizens is also crucial to underpin sustainable growth, and allow greater investment in the health and education of hundreds of millions of people.

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