Arjun is a 12-year-old boy who lives in a small village in India. His family is very poor, and his parents cannot afford to send him to school. Instead, Arjun works in a nearby farm for long hours and for very little pay. He is often tired and sick, and he has no time to play or go to school.

Arjun’s story is not unique. Millions of children around the world are forced to work instead of going to school. This is especially true in developing countries like India. Child labor is a serious problem, and it has many negative consequences for children.

The data above shows the top countries with the highest percentage of child labor since 2010, with India ranking at the top 3. Children who work are more likely to be exposed to hazardous working conditions, which can put their health and safety at risk. Child labor can also lead to social problems, such as increased crime and violence.

The number of children out of school in India is a serious problem, and child labor is one of the main reasons why so many children are not able to get an education. Education is a fundamental right and a key driver of development. It equips individuals with knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary for personal growth, economic empowerment, and social progress. When a significant number of children are out of school, it hampers the overall development of a country, contributing in social instability and conflicts within societies.

The difference between the number of children out of school in Finland and India is a significant one.  Finland actively works to eliminate child labor and uphold the rights of children to receive a quality education through its strong legal framework, commitment to equality, and collaboration with international organizations, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for every child in the country. It has implemented comprehensive laws and regulations that strictly prohibit child labor and safeguard children’s well-being.  Compulsory education ensures that all children have access to education, while teachers are highly trained professionals who create supportive and inclusive learning environments.  As a result of these investments and initiatives, Finland has one of the lowest dropout rates in the world. Students in Finland are more likely to complete their education and pursue higher education or vocational training, leading to better career prospects and economic opportunities.

The difference in gross domestic product (GDP) per capita between Finland and India is a good example of the negative impact of child labor and children out of school.

There are several things that can be done to address child labor. These include:
• Providing free and compulsory education for all children.
• Raising the minimum legal working age.
• Enforcing child labor laws.
• Providing economic opportunities for families so that they do not need to rely on child labor.
• Raising awareness of the issue of child labor.

The story of Arjun and Finland shows that it is possible to address child labor. Child labor is a serious problem that has a number of negative consequences for both children and society as a whole. It is important to take steps to reduce child labor and ensure that all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential. By investing in social welfare, education, and enforcement, governments can help to reduce child labor to a very low level.