Dominicans Agree With ILO: Child Labor Ain't So Bad

As reported by the Inter Press News Service, some 60% of Dominicans believe that some work is reasonable or beneficial for children, as long as it doesn't interfere with schooling or cause physical or mental harm. A majority also do not see child labor as a major social problem.

Although some organizations quoted in the story are surprised by this finding, this puts Dominicans in line with the general worldwide consensus of ILO conventions 138 and 182:

Tasks appropriate to a child's age and that do not interfere with a child's schooling and leisure time can be a normal part of growing up in a rural environment. Indeed, many types of work experience for children can be positive, providing them with practical and social skills for work as adults. Improved self-confidence, self-esteem and work skills are attributes often found in young people engaged in some aspects of farm work.