The New Nation - Internet Edition

ECONOMIC REPORTER

Save the Children UK highly appreciates and acknowledges the efforts of the government of Bangladesh in the formulation of the 'National Child Labour Elimination Policy.'

The policy is a testimony of the commitment and sense of accountability of the government towards child from poor households and is indicative of the government's aspiration of a healthy and prosperous future for the country.

The National Child Labour Survery of BBS, 2003 stated that 1.3 million children are in hazardous labour in Bangladesh and the total population of working children is 3.2 million. Of these, 93.3 per cent are in informal sector. 4.6 per cent of these children, in both urban and rural areas start working at the age of 5-9 with or without any remuneration. Save the Children UK believes that the policy, along with strong leadership by the government, will go a long way in helping overcome the current situation.

We congratulate the government of Bangladesh on this and reaffirm our deep commitment to working with the people and the government of Bangladesh in addressing issues related to children's developments.