THE Criminal Amendment (Prohibition of Child Domestic Labour) Bill 2024 serves as a beacon of hope, symbolising a dedicated commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of children throughout Pakistan.

This legislative proposal marks a critical step towards eradicating the deeply entrenchedissue ofchildlabourin our society. The Bill`s intent is clear: to classify child domestic labour (CDL) as a non-compoundable, non-bailable and cognisable offence, emphasising the urgency of prioritising the wellbeing of our children.

While the bill signals a crucial stride towards change, it must be complemented by holistic measures addressing the socioeconomic factors that perpetuate CDL.

By incorporating best practices from global counterparts and aligning with international standards, we can bolster our commitment to creating a society where the rights and dignity of every child are inviolable.

As a society, we must actively engage in awareness campaigns, not merely as observers, but as catalysts for change.

Education, in schools and in communities, is pivotal. Governments, beyond passing merely bills, must invest in creating an environment where the vulnerable are shielded and empowered.

The battle against CDL is not just a legal or economic struggle; it is a test of our societal conscience. Let the many stories of misery mobilise us into a force that demands change. Together, we can dismantle the chains that bind the young souls in the cycle of child labour, and pave the way for a future where every child may have an equal chance to flourish.

Majid Burfat Karachi