Amman, May 6 (Petra) – Experts and specialists stressed the need for stricter enforcement of child labor laws during a panel discussion organized by Tamkeen for Legal Aid and Human Rights, titled "Legislation and Enforcement of Child Labor Laws in Jordan."

The participants called for increasing penalties, expanding law enforcement scope, enhancing coordination among relevant authorities, and unifying and continuously updating databases to effectively combat child labor.

Tamkeen Executive Director Linda Kalash underlined that addressing the issue requires comprehensive measures, including expanding job opportunities, improving the educational environment, and curbing school dropouts. She noted that the phenomenon has worsened due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Haifa Darwish from the Ministry of Labor reported that 249 child labor cases were detected in 2024, resulting in 181 violations. She stressed the importance of cooperation between government bodies and civil society organizations, and of assessing work environments for children aged 16 to 18 to ensure their safety.

Imad Suhaiba of the Ministry of Social Development said the ministry has created a dedicated department for child labor and is signing agreements with associations to support working children and their families. He underscored the importance of implementing the national strategy to reduce child labor in collaboration with partners.

Childhood specialist at the National Council for Family Affairs, Hania Khanji, noted that Jordan records among the world’s lowest child labor rates, highlighting the role of effective monitoring and evaluation of the national strategy.

Nadine Nimri of Save the Children Jordan pointed out that children working in informal sectors such as agriculture and begging are exposed to physical and psychological abuse. She called for stricter law enforcement, greater oversight, and stronger family support systems.

Tareq Faqih from Ruwwad Tanmia Foundation identified poverty, lack of educational awareness, and economic pressures as key drivers of child labor, advocating for stronger social protection programs.

Sherine Mazen of Tamkeen added that extreme poverty and rising living costs compel families to send their children to work, emphasizing the need for economic support and improved oversight.

Lawyer Asmaa Omeira presented findings from a recent study that revealed legal ambiguities in the definitions of "juvenile" and "organized begging," highlighting the weak mechanisms currently in place to protect working children.

Tamkeen is currently implementing a European Union-funded program under the IRDPP III initiative aimed at combating child labor and enhancing protection and livelihoods in the central and northern regions of the Kingdom.

//Petra// AJ

06/05/2025 13:51:58