ILO supports technical exchanges between Türkiye and the Netherlands on eliminating child labour in seasonal agriculture

THE HAGUE (ILO News) – The ILO organized a one week study visit to the Netherlands, in the context of a project entitled "Elimination of Child Labour in Seasonal Agriculture", which is funded by the European Union (EU). The visit brought together fourteen representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security of Türkiye, social partners, and the ILO Türkiye office.

Participants exchanged experiences and good practices in eliminating and monitoring child labour, as well as regulations and practices related to seasonal agricultural work.

The Netherlands is the world's second-largest exporter of agricultural products and an active participant in Alliance 8.7, a global partnership which takes immediate measures to eradicate forced labour, modern slavery, human trafficking and child labour, in accordance with SDG Target 8.7.

The country was chosen due to its significant role in global agriculture and as a host country for migrant workers within the EU (including from Poland, Bulgaria and Romania), making it an ideal setting for discussions on child labour and labour regulations.

Türkiye was recently recognized as a Pathfinder country within Alliance 8.7, a significant milestone in its commitment to combating child labour. The ILO has been instrumental in supporting Türkiye throughout this process and will continue to provide technical assistance. The study visit facilitated valuable exchanges of knowledge and experience between the two Pathfinder countries, reinforcing their shared commitment to the elimination of child labour.

The delegation met with key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, the Netherlands Trade Union Confederation (FNV), Terre des Hommes Netherlands (TdH-NL), the Royal Tropical Institute (KIT), and the Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers (VNO-NCW/MKB). Meetings also took place with the Turkish Embassy in The Hague.

The study visit provided a valuable platform for discussing the formalization of the agricultural labour force and strategies to eliminate child labour. Focused on finding tailored solutions to address the challenges faced by each country, these discussions yielded critical insights that will inform ongoing efforts and policy development in both nations.

The visit not only fostered a deeper understanding of these issues but also strengthened the collaboration between Türkiye and the Netherlands. It has laid a solid foundation for further joint efforts in eliminating child labour in seasonal agriculture, demonstrating the commitment of both countries to this critical cause.

The insights gained from this visit will significantly inform ongoing policy development in Türkiye, enhancing efforts to create a more formalized agricultural sector, free of child labour. The strengthened collaboration between Türkiye and the Netherlands will serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges, demonstrating the power of international cooperation in tackling complex labour issues.

The ILO remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote international cooperation and develop effective strategies for ensuring decent work for all. By fostering such exchanges, the ILO aims to contribute to the global effort to ensure decent work and eliminate child labour worldwide.