Child labor is a serious issue that continues to plague many countries around the world.

Despite laws and regulations designed to protect children from exploitation, many companies continue to engage in the practice in order to cut costs and increase profits. This not only violates the rights of children, but also perpetuates poverty and hinders the development of entire communities.

One of the major industries where child labor is prevalent is agriculture. According to the University of California, Davis In many developing countries, small-scale farmers and rural communities rely on the labor of children to plant, harvest, and transport crops. Children as young as five are often forced to work long hours in dangerous conditions, exposed to pesticides and other hazards, Human Rights Watch reports. They are also at risk of injury from heavy machinery and equipment.

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Children risk life and limb in illegal mining operations.

Another industry where child labor is common is the garment and textile industry. Many companies outsource production to countries where labor laws are lax and wages are low, creating an environment in which child labor can thrive, Reliable Plant reports. Children are often forced to work in factories for long hours, with little or no pay, and in dangerous conditions, according to the Borgen Project. They are also at risk of abuse and exploitation.

The mining industry is also another sector where child labor is widely practiced. As Humanium reports, Children as young as six years old are often forced to work in mines, digging for minerals and other resources. They are exposed to hazardous chemicals, dangerous machinery, and poor ventilation, putting them at risk of injury and long-term health problems.

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Child labor is often used in the mining industry,

Some of the biggest ways companies exploit children are through:

6. Lower wages

Children are often paid less than adult workers, making them a cheaper source of labor for companies. This allows companies to cut costs and increase profits, Fashion United reports.

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Children are often paid less than adult workers, making them a cheaper source of labor for companies.

5. Longer working hours

Children are often made to work longer hours than adults, allowing companies to increase productivity and output, according to UNICEF.

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Many companies outsource production to countries where labor laws are lax and wages are low.

4. Lack of regulations

In many countries, child labor laws are not enforced or are easily circumvented. According to Phys.org, companies may operate in these areas to take advantage of this lack of oversight and regulation, allowing them to engage in child labor without fear of consequences.

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Companies can take advantage of poverty and lack of education in certain communities, targeting children and families that are most vulnerable to exploitative labor practices.

3. Outsourcing

Many companies outsource production to countries where labor laws are lax and wages are low, creating an environment in which child labor can thrive. This allows companies to take advantage of cheap labor while avoiding responsibility for the exploitation of children, Berkeley Haas reports.

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In many countries, child labor laws are not enforced or are easily circumvented.

2. Exploiting loopholes

Companies can take advantage of loopholes in labor laws, the Employment Law Handbook reports, by classifying children as "apprentices" or "trainees" rather than employees, to avoid paying them minimum wage or giving them the same rights as adult workers.

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Even in developed countries, some companies have been known to overlook laws to exploit cheap labor.

1. Exploiting vulnerable communities

According to the UN, companies can take advantage of poverty and lack of education in certain communities, targeting children and families that are most vulnerable to exploitative labor practices.

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Children are often made to work longer hours than adults, allowing companies to increase productivity and output.

These are just a few examples. However, it's not just in developing countries where this issue occurs, even in developed countries, some companies have been known to overlook laws to exploit cheap labor, putting children at risk, Green America reports.

To combat child labor, it's important for companies to take responsibility for their actions and ensure that their supply chains are free from child labor. This can be achieved through implementing strict policies and conducting regular audits to monitor compliance. Consumers can also play a role by choosing to buy products from companies that have a proven track record of ethical sourcing.

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Research the products you buy and the companies that produce them to ensure they are not made using child labor.

In addition to these actions, governments must also enforce laws and regulations that prohibit child labor, and provide support and resources for families and communities to prevent children from being forced into labor. This can include providing education and training opportunities, as well as social services and financial assistance.

There are also steps you can take to reduce child labor around the world:

5. Be mindful of the products you buy and the companies you support

Research the products you buy and the companies that produce them to ensure they are not made using child labor. Look for certifications such as Fair Trade, which indicate that products were made ethically and sustainably.

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Learn more about the issue of child labor and the industries and countries where it is most prevalent.

4. Speak out against child labor

Speak to your friends, family, and community about the issue of child labor and encourage them to take action. Contact your elected representatives and ask them to support legislation that aims to eliminate child labor.

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There are many organizations around the world that work to combat child labor.

3. Educate yourself

Learn more about the issue of child labor and the industries and countries where it is most prevalent. This knowledge can help you make more informed decisions about the products you buy and the companies you support.

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You can take steps to reduce child labor around the world.

2. Support fair trade

Look for fair trade certified products, which ensure that farmers and workers are paid fair wages, and that no child labor is used in the production process.

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Help ensure children have access to the food, education and other resources they need to thrive.

1. Support organizations that work to eliminate child labor

There are many organizations around the world that work to combat child labor, provide education and support to children and families, and advocate for stronger labor laws. Organizations like Greater Good Charities are working to help ensure children have access to the food, education and other resources they need to thrive.

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Child labor is a serious issue that affects millions of children.

Child labor is a serious issue that affects millions of children around the world, and it continues to be a major problem despite laws and regulations designed to protect them. It is the responsibility of both companies and governments to take action to eliminate child labor, and ensure that all children have the opportunity to grow and develop in a safe and healthy environment. We can also play a role by being mindful of the products you buy and the companies you support.

Make an even bigger impact -- click below to take the pledge to cut out child labor and build a brighter future for children all around the world.