Summary:

Around the world, millions of children work instead of going to school or playing with friends. Child labourers are not in school and instead work long hours in often dangerous jobs to earn a few pounds to help support their family. Some of these children work in factories making clothes and other consumer goods; they spend long hours every day sewing together hats, t-shirts or trousers.

Many of these children are illiterate and the chances of getting a better job later in life are slim. This is one example of unfair employment, but there are many others. Unemployment and unfair employment are major problems around the world with many people unable to find work or being forced to take jobs that are exploitative and unsafe.

Decent work means work that is productive and delivers a fair income, offers security in the workplace and social protection, where people are free to express concerns, unionise and participate in decisions that affect their lives, and where people are given equal opportunities and treated the same regardless of their race, ethnicity or gender.

To explore this theme further students can watch the film clips on Martens, Kay Kay, Stephanie, Hayley and Emilie.

could also complete activities 8 and 9 to learn more about child labour and unfair employment and activity 22 to explore employment in their own area.