The US Department of Labor has announced a significant new framework of action aimed at eradicating child labor in the cocoa sector in West Africa, in collaboration with the governments of Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and the World Cocoa Foundation.
Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, which together produce nearly 60% of the world’s cocoa, have long struggled with child labor on cocoa farms. Despite progress, the issue persists, highlighting the need for continued efforts.
“The framework centers on the national action plans of Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, while also emphasizing the crucial role that businesses play in ensuring due diligence and transparency in supply chains,” said Thea Lee, Deputy Undersecretary for International Affairs at the US Department of Labor. “Our collective aim is to eliminate child labor and improve the lives of vulnerable children, families, and workers.”
Addressing Root Causes
The newly launched framework is designed to tackle the root causes of child labor, including poverty, limited access to decent work, lack of social protection, and insufficient corporate accountability. Key initiatives include:
- Expanding access to quality education and vocational training.
- Strengthening social services and protections for cocoa-farming communities.
- Empowering women, youth, and workers.
- Enhancing monitoring systems for child labor.
The framework emphasizes a collaborative approach, bringing together companies, workers, farmers, and civil society organizations to work towards a common goal.
Global Support, Local Action
US Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Jessica Davis Ba, praised the initiative as a “moment of hope and opportunity” and acknowledged the leadership of Côte d’Ivoire’s First Lady, Dominique Ouattara, for her vision and commitment to change.
In Ghana, US Ambassador Virginia Palmer highlighted the country’s strong commitment to addressing child labor. “As the world’s second-largest producer of cocoa, we welcome Ghana’s signing of this framework and its commitment to working with all stakeholders to tackle child labor, including companies, workers, and cocoa farmers,” she said.
Promoting Accountability and Transparency
The framework also stresses the importance of elevating the voices of farmers and workers, encouraging regular dialogue with civil society organizations to ensure greater accountability and transparency in the cocoa sector.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in the fight against child labor, aiming to improve the livelihoods of cocoa-farming communities and protect the rights of vulnerable children in both Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana.
