In the globalized landscape of the 21st century, ensuring the protection and well-being of children is a collective responsibility that transcends borders and industries. Child labor remains a persistent issue, threatening the fundamental rights and futures of millions of children worldwide. In response to this pressing challenge, various organizations and businesses have come together to form the Business Children’s Working Group (BCWG). This article delves into the initiatives, achievements, and future endeavors of the BCWG in its mission to eradicate child labor and promote children’s rights. Here’s a recap of the significant initiatives undertaken by key stakeholders: 

Social Drives 

  • Research and Training: Extensive research and training programs were conducted focusing on various sectors such as workforce management, fishing communities, and issues concerning women and children. Notable projects included research on child marriage and how palm oil companies implemented the 10 principles of CRBP (Child Rights and Business Principles). 

CNT International 

  • Immunization Research: Collaborative efforts between clothing brands in Europe and garment suppliers aimed at researching immunization. Concerns were raised regarding child labor in the garment and nickel mining industries in Indonesia and Malaysia. 

Astra International 

  • Community Building: Astra International demonstrated its commitment to children’s rights by becoming a member of the Asia Pacific Social Accountability Institute (APSAI). The organization actively engaged in community-building initiatives for adolescents’ health, scholarship programs, and healthcare interventions for infants and young adults. 

Universitas Parahyangan (UNPAR) 

  • Financial Literacy: UNPAR took strides in fostering financial literacy, particularly among women, to address the high divorce rates and poverty levels in Indonesia. Through management programs, the university aimed to equip individuals with essential financial skills from a young age, recognizing the pivotal role of women in family finances. 

IBCSD 

  • Business Sustainability: In collaboration with UNICEF, IBCSD developed modules focusing on business risks related to children and family-friendly policies. The group emphasized advancing family and children’s rights in their future endeavors. 

EKSPAT 

  • Tourism and IT Development: EKSPAT concentrated on tourism development and IT platforms to improve child protection efforts. They also advocated for better banking practices to combat financial crimes, including those involving child exploitation. 

NANMARI CONSULTING 

  • Campaigns Against Harassment: NANMARI CONSULTING facilitated campaigns addressing sexual harassment and bullying in the JABODETABEK region. 

PAKLA 

  • Child Labor Eradication: PAKLA intensified its efforts in combating child labor in agriculture, launching the Acclaim Program aimed at developing national standards for child labor. Collaboration with Save the Children further strengthened their impact. 

KOMNAS HAM 

  • Business Education: KOMNAS HAM emphasized educating businesses on human rights issues, offering mediation services, and developing modules to integrate human rights education into corporate settings. 

PKPA 

  • E-Learning Initiatives: PKPA developed e-learning modules to enhance child protection efforts and capacity-building programs in education and business sectors. 

Conclusion 

The year 2023 witnessed remarkable strides in addressing child labor and promoting children’s rights through collaborative efforts. Organizations and businesses across various sectors actively engaged in research, education, and advocacy initiatives. While progress has been made, challenges remain, and the commitment to safeguarding children’s rights must continue. With ongoing collaboration and concerted efforts, we can create a world where every child can thrive free from exploitation.