The U.S. Department of Labor announced the recipients of the 2024 Iqbal Masih Award for the Elimination of Child Labor on Friday, June 14. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional efforts by individuals, companies, organizations, or national governments to end the worst forms of child labor.
The award is presented annually to highlight the critical work being done around the world to combat child labor. This year’s recipients are two outstanding examples of dedication and commitment to this important cause.
The Egyptian civil society organization, Wadi El Nil Association, has been a pivotal force in combating child labor in Egypt’s limestone mining sector for over two decades. Their tireless efforts have rescued countless children from hazardous quarries and provided them with pathways to education and skills development.
Wadi El Nil Association’s work goes beyond rescuing children from child labor. They also provide microloans to families to help them achieve economic stability and break the cycle of child labor. This holistic approach has had a profound impact on communities in Egypt.
In recent years, Wadi El Nil Association has extended additional support to vulnerable families and collaborated with community organizations and volunteers to reduce the impact of the pandemic on families in need. Their dedication to the cause is truly inspiring.
Andrews Addoquaye Tagoe, the Deputy General Secretary of the General Agricultural Workers Union of the Ghana Trade Union Congress, has been a powerful force in Ghana’s efforts to end child labor in agriculture. His passionate advocacy has helped thousands of children move from child labor into school.
Tagoe’s work has also helped to create a strong network of anti-child labor champions in Ghana and beyond. His efforts have led to the organization and formalization of the agricultural economy in rural areas, reducing the incidence of child labor.
The Iqbal Masih Award is a non-monetary award established in 2008 by Congress to honor the memory of a Pakistani child who was sold into slavery at age four and later became an outspoken advocate against child exploitation before his tragic death at age 12.
The award is presented each year by the Secretary of Labor to recognize outstanding efforts in the fight against child labor. This year’s recipients, Wadi El Nil Association and Andrews Addoquaye Tagoe, are truly deserving of this honor.
Their work is a testament to the impact that dedicated individuals and organizations can have in the fight against child labor. The U.S. Department of Labor is proud to recognize their achievements and continues to work towards a world free from child labor.
