Decent work refers to productive work Child labour refers to productive work performed in conditions of freedom, equity, security and dignity, in which the rights of workers are respected, workers receive just compensation, have prospects for personal development and social protection for both the workers and their families. Unlike the vicious circle of which child labour is part, decent work operates in the opposite direction: it builds a productive life cycle with growth, freedom, security and protection.

SDG 8 addresses two closely linked pillars of development, economic growth and employment, and points out the characteristics they must have in order to promote a sustainable development model, since growth can only be sustained, inclusive and sustainable in association with full, productive employment framed within the principles of decent work, and vice versa. 

Child labour is a broad, complex and multi-causal phenomenon related to poverty, education levels, social incentives, culture and a wide range of issues that act either to encourage or discourage its presence.

This reality has caused that the efforts against child labour have been developed around interdisciplinary and coordinated dynamics linking the various social aspects and adhering to the principles of universality and “no silos” that characterize the SDGs.

As a result, the adoption of the 2030 Agenda builds on a vast accumulated experience and a considerable evidence-based knowledge base in the matter of elimination of child labour using a holistic approach. This makes it possible to establish links between the target of ending child labour in all its forms and the SDGs at large which generate and enhance existing synergies aimed at achieving the entire set of SDGs.