The project “Eliminating child labour and forced labour in the cotton, textile and garment value chains: An integrated approach” was jointly launched by the European Union (EU), the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 2018 to tackle child labour and forced labour in target cotton-producing countries: Burkina Faso, Mali, Pakistan and Peru. The project combined integrated area-based and value-chain approaches, cooperating across governments and with social partners, industries, and communities.

Cotton is one of the world’s most widely grown crops and among its most important agricultural commodities. If we are to strive towards the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 8.7 to end child labour by 2025 and end forced labour, modern slavery and human trafficking by 2030, tackling these issues in agriculture, including in the cotton sector, must be a crucial focus. 

This report highlights some of the main achievements and milestones of the project and includes overarching lessons learned. Significant results were achieved and despite major challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts continued and strategies were adapted in light of realities on the ground.

Additionally, in each of the project countries, comprehensive strategies were developed and implemented with ILO and FAO leveraging their respective means of action to maximise outreach and impact. 

We commend the efforts and achievements of the project partners and staff in Burkina Faso, Mali, Pakistan and Peru, as well as the achievements made at the global level. A broad range of partners, including Ministries in charge of Labour, Education, Agriculture and Rural Development, employers’ and workers’ organizations, civil society and affected communities have been empowered to tackle child labour and forced labour. Recognising the interconnected nature of all the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW), these stakeholders have also been mobilized on the other three principles and rights – the elimination of discrimination at work; the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining; and the right to a safe and healthy work environment. This report serves as a basis for learning and for future action, not only in these countries but also as an inspiration for action in other countries around the world.

Together, as a global community, we can move the compass towards the elimination of child labour and forced labour. We can reverse current trends and ensure that every child’s right to go to school and be free of child labour is fulfilled, as well as ensure that every woman and man can access a decent job and have a secure future.