Evaluation of child labour and its impact on poverty: A study of automobile workshops in Islamabad

Abstract

This thesis is focused on evaluating the relationship of child labour and its impact on poverty in the Automobile Industry, ICT. The objective of this research is to determine the extent to which child labour influences poverty while encompassing the social, political, and economic aspects of rampant child labour found in ICT workshops. Furthermore, it encompasses studying the working conditions of children, their willingness to stay in the labour market and the generational transfer of child labour. The research methodology employs a quantitative and qualitative approach involving the collection of primary and secondary data. In addition to this, Rational Choice Theory is integrated to further conceptualize the theoretical framework. Interviews of experts and policymakers were carried out to determine how Pakistan could develop a cohesive child labor policy approach. Key findings identified that child labour has a negative impact on poverty and parents as well as children are satisfied with this trend as it results in a significant contribution to household income. Hence, at this point, full eradication of child labour cannot be achieved in Pakistan, rather systematic steps can be taken to work towards reducing it. The government departments need to document information and provide alternatives to child labour by focusing on better interdepartmental coordination, communication, and budget dissemination.