The Holy Father, Pope Francis, Wednesday rallied against the slavery of child labour calling it a “disgusting phenomenon that is constantly increasing, particularly in poor countries.”
“There are millions of children, mostly young girls, who are victims of this hidden form of exploitation that often leads to sexual abuse, poor treatment and discrimination,” the Holy Father told a crowd of 60,000 gathered in St Peter’s Square.
The comments came at the conclusion of his weekly General Audience and were made to coincide with the World Day Against Child Labour, an initiative of the international Labour Organisation that brings attention to the plight of exploited child labourers.
According to figures published today by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), an estimated 10.5 million children worldwide are working as domestic workers in people’s homes.
Six and a half million of these child labourers are aged between five and 14 years old and more than 71 per cent are girls, it said.
“It is slavery!” the Pope declared.
Pope Francis concluded his appeal by calling on the international community to bring about more effective measures to combat child labour.
The 76 year old Pontiff also stated that all children have the right to play, study, pray and grow in their families.
“It is their right and our duty,” the Pope stressed.
“A serene childhood allows children to look towards life and the future with confidence. Woe unto those who suffocate their joyous momentum of hope!” he said.
Sources
- The Telegraph
- Zenit
- Image: The Telegraph