UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of Slavery. Delivered at the 60th HRC in Geneva.
Thank you, Madame Vice President,
The United Kingdom thanks the Special Rapporteur for his tireless efforts and for his latest report on the worst forms of child labour.
It comes at a critical time. While global estimates from the ILO and UNICEF show a reduction in child labour since 2020, the reality remains stark: 138 million children affected worldwide.
The United Kingdom continues to work with partners to end the worst forms of child labour and to accelerate progress towards Sustainable Development Goal Target 8.7.
For example, in the DRC, we have helped strengthen the capacity of grassroots organisations to respond to severe child labour cases in artisanal cobalt mining.
In Bangladesh, our support has enabled garment sector suppliers to identify and address child labour risks.
We will continue to work with businesses and investors globally to raise awareness of child labour risks and to promote responsible business practices.
We also look forward to the sixth Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour in 2026. This will be an important opportunity to shape innovative and inclusive approaches.
Mr Special Rapporteur,
How we can ensure that children, as those directly impacted, can help us shape our future efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child labour?
