Child labour and the violation of child rights: a case study of Kenya

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Date
2013-04
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kampala International University, School of Law
Abstract
The study attempts to determine the extent to which child labour constitutes a violation of child rights. The intemational documents, especially the CRC, depart from the universal conception of childhood, making children all over the world the same and deserving similar treatment, more so claiming their rights. Using the case of child workers in Kenya, it examines the notion of childhood which f01ms the basis to any child rights claims. Employing the cultural politics of childhood, the essay argues that childhood on which child rights are founded is a contested notion. Children are valued differently in all societies across the world. Additionally, the thesis argues that education proposed as a panacea for child labour is also a contested field as its aims and values vary across societies. The westem education system may not be the ideal for the lives of children working on tea and tobacco estates. Thus, the basis on which child rights are based, and the proposition of schooling as solution remain problematic in the abolition of child rights. The thesis concludes by recommending the capability approach which provides an altemative to the understanding and protection human rights, children's rights included. In the capability approach, the end (substantive opportunities) must be achieved freely (freedom of processes) through the most efficient and available means of sustaining economic life, security and welfare of people. The capability approach treats human rights and education from a holistic perspective. Key words: child, child labour, child work, child rights, CRC,poverty, childhood, cultural politics of childhood, values, education, capability approach.
Description
A Research dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment for the Award of Bachelor of Law
Keywords
Rights, Labour, Child
Citation
Collections