Abstract
The global response to child labour is based on the standards set by three major international
conventions. This review examines the historical development of the conceptualizations of
various forms of child labour, relevant views and perspectives, contemporary theoretical
underpinnings, and policy suggestions. The emerging evidence shows that child labour
incidences in all its forms have increased in many parts of the world, and the global target to
eradicate child labour by 2025 seems unattainable. The evaluation indicates that the current
global age-based abolitionist policy to fight child labour has lost some ground. The covid-19
pandemic has worsened the situation and the worst forms of child labour have become even
more widespread and deeply normalized in many contexts and communities. The current
scholarship of child labour remains critically ignorant of the relevant societal and cultural norms.
Contemporary theorists and empiricists emphasize on constructing knowledge with the children
and families engaged in child labour and focusing on finding innovative community-led
alternatives to the worst forms of child labour. Regulations, policies, and support programmes
must recognize the economic contribution of working children and work towards the children's
best interests.