ILO and Slovenia partner to combat child labour in Egypt

Cairo, Egypt (ILO News)- The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Embassy of Slovenia in Egypt have signed an agreement to launch a new project aimed at eliminating the worst forms of child labour and empowering vulnerable families in Egypt.

The signing ceremony was co-hosted at the ILO premises by Eric Oechslin, Director of ILO Cairo Office and H.E. Sašo Podlesnik, Ambassador of Slovenia in Egypt. This initiative is part of a broader partnership involving the Ministry of Social Solidarity (MOSS), local non-governmental organizations, and financial institutions.

This collaboration marks the first partnership between the ILO and the Slovenian Government in Egypt, with the Embassy of Slovenia. The project, titled “Economic and Social Empowerment for Families through Environmentally Friendly and Gender-Sensitive Income Generating Activities to Combat the Worst Forms of Child Labour among Girls and Boys,” will focus on vulnerable rural areas in the Gharbia governorate, known for its child labour challenges, particularly in the Jasmine supply chain.

During the signing ceremony, Eric Oechslin emphasized the need for such interventions, stating: “The ILO is dedicated to addressing the root causes of child labour in key supply chains and sectors, including cotton, jasmine, small industries, and child labour on the streets. We recognize the commitment of our national partners in implementing Egypt’s National Action Plan to Combat the Worst Forms of Child Labour in Egypt and Supporting Families (2018-2025).

“However, more efforts are urgently needed—not only to combat child labour but also to support families, empower women, and provide sustainable economic and social solutions. Today’s signing is a milestone in our shared commitment to combating child labour and empowering vulnerable families in Egypt. With Slovenia’s support and the dedication of our national constituents, we can enhance sustainable change, helping these families thrive economically and socially while protecting their children’s future,” Eric Oechslin added.

From his side, H.E Ambassador Sašo Podlesnik echoed these sentiments, emphasized Slovenia’s commitment to social justice, gender equality, and environmental sustainability: “We are proud to partner with the ILO for the first time in Egypt on this significant initiative. This project not only addresses child labour but also supports families by empowering parents—especially women—with sustainable income-generating activities”.

“We look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on communities in Gharbia,” Sašo Podlesnik emphasized.

The ILO and the Embassy of Slovenia are optimistic that this initial collaboration will pave the way for future joint initiatives with the Government of Egypt. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to continuing efforts to address child labour and empower vulnerable families.

The newly signed project will take place from October to December 2024 and aims to combat the worst forms of child labour by empowering 30 families through training in sustainable, gender-sensitive income-generating activities, financial inclusion, and awareness programmes. It will also provide 50 at-risk children with education and rehabilitation support through the ILO’s training programme "Supporting children’s rights through education, art, and media (SCREAM)".