National Council for Persons with Disabilities Intensifies Awareness Campaigns Against Child Labor

The National Council for Persons with Disabilities announced on the occasion of World Day Against Child Labor that Egypt is prioritizing the protection and empowerment of individuals with disabilities. This commitment is reflected in a comprehensive system of legislation, laws, and national policies designed to safeguard their rights and uphold their human dignity, while criminalizing all forms of exploitation they may face.

Dr. Eman Karim, the general supervisor of the council, emphasized that the exploitation of children with disabilities in labor poses a humanitarian and societal challenge that requires collaborative efforts from all concerned institutions to combat and eliminate it. She highlighted that protecting these children, especially those with disabilities, is a shared national and community responsibility.

Dr. Karim pointed out that the council continues to observe instances where children with disabilities are subjected to exploitation through inappropriate work, including street vending in public areas. This situation has perpetuated negative stereotypes about individuals with disabilities over the years, reducing their capabilities and potential to misleading portrayals that do not reflect their realities or aspirations.

She affirmed that children with disabilities possess diverse abilities and skills that qualify them for meaningful participation in society and productive employment. The council is actively collaborating with ministries, relevant authorities, and civil society organizations to change these perceptions and promote a culture of empowerment, inclusion, and respect for rights.

Dr. Karim stressed that combating child labor, particularly among children with disabilities, involves more than just enforcing laws; it requires raising community awareness about the dangers of this phenomenon and its negative impacts on children, their families, and society as a whole. She confirmed that the council will continue its efforts through awareness campaigns and community education initiatives.

The general supervisor announced the intensification of awareness campaigns under the national initiative “My Family is My Strength,” aimed at raising awareness about children’s rights, criminalizing their exploitation in labor, and informing the public about reporting mechanisms to contact the council if they identify or recognize children with disabilities facing exploitation. This will ensure prompt intervention and provision of necessary support and protection in coordination with relevant authorities and civil society organizations.

She concluded by stating that building a more just and equitable society begins with protecting its children and vulnerable groups. Eradicating child labor and the exploitation of individuals with disabilities is fundamental to achieving sustainable development and reinforcing human rights principles.