Fighting Child Labour Amid Turbulent Times: The Case for Strengthening Access to Remedy in African Supply Chains

Session partners:

• The Centre for Child Rights and Business

• UNICEF

Background 

​​

Child labour remains a significant issue in Africa’s informal sectors, particularly in artisanal mining, where weak regulatory frameworks and poverty exacerbate the problem. In light of economic instability, geopolitical tensions, and cuts to foreign aid, addressing child labour has become increasingly difficult, while the pressure on businesses to meet human rights due diligence (HRDD) standards is intensifying.

 

This session focuses on how businesses can move from commitment to concrete action in strengthening access to remedy for child labour in supply chains, particularly in high-risk sectors like artisanal mining. It will spotlight business-driven initiatives, with a particular focus on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the Fair Cobalt Alliance (FCA), The Centre for Child Rights and Business, UNICEF, international companies and local CSOs have collaborated to combat child labour in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) communities.

 

The session will explore the evolving regulatory landscape, highlight the role of businesses in improving HRDD, and demonstrate how multi-stakeholder collaboration can foster long-term remediation and support for vulnerable children. Attendees will gain insights into how businesses can integrate remedy mechanisms within their operations and contribute to sustainable development in Africa.

​

Session Focus

​

• Explore how businesses can strengthen access to remedy for child labour in high-risk, informal sectors.

• Discuss successful business-driven initiatives in the DRC’s artisanal mining sector and why more businesses are taking responsibility by investing in local initiatives

• Highlight the role of CSOs in providing support and resources for vulnerable communities and in ensuring the sustainability of initiatives

• Highlight the relevance of strengthening the national child protection system and workforce.

• Examine the evolving regulatory landscape for HRDD and its implications for businesses.

• Promote collaboration between business and civil society to ensure long-term improvements in access to remedy and responsible business practices.

​

​