The Cabinet approved amendments to existing laws enabling a complete ban on several forms of child labour, previously allowed under certain circumstances, come into effect from today, 01 July 2025.
The updated regulations to safeguard children from exploitation are as follows;
- Children under the age of 16 are strictly prohibited from engaging in begging or commercial activities.
- Adolescents aged 16 to 18 are barred from hazardous occupations, including domestic service that may expose them to danger or abuse.
The new measures follow growing concerns about children who, due to various hardships, become vulnerable to labour exploitation.
Authorities noted that some children, especially those lacking parental care, end up begging in public areas and selling goods under the control of unrelated adults, raising fears of child trafficking and abuse.
Officials said that these legal changes will be vigorously enforced, while a nationwide awareness campaign is set to launch, aiming to educate the public about the dangers of child labour and the importance of protecting children’s rights. (Newswire)