The Impacts of Covid-19 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour in Myanmar

Abstract

In Myanmar, almost one in ten children are engaged in child labour and more than half of the working children are doing hazardous work. The Covid-19 pandemic and responses to it have far-reaching social and economic consequences for vulnerable populations, including children in the worst forms of child labour (WFCL). This report examines how working children including those in WFCL and their families in Hlaingtharya, Yangon, Myanmar experienced the conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic and how it intersects with existing vulnerabilities to affect their incomes and livelihoods, living and working conditions, food security, housing stability, physical and mental wellbeing, and engagement in WFCL. It also explores how the pandemic has affected child protection systems and support networks that provide services for children and vulnerable families. In addition, the paper identifies knowledge and policy gaps related to WFCL and recommendations to tackle WFCL in Myanmar.