ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses how local government can respond to the complex web of concerns raised by their obligations towards working children. The issue of children's work is causing growing international concern. In the context of poverty, and in the absence of welfare systems that guarantee a livelihood for children and their families, work remains the most viable option for many children and adolescents. Children are subject to all the occupational hazards and diseases faced by adults. They are frequently more vulnerable because of their growing bodies, their lower threshold for toxics, and their lesser ability to respond effectively to hazards such as rapidly moving machinery. Children in some of the most damaging and exploitative work, such as prostitution or drug trafficking, are the most difficult to reach. Except in hazardous situations requiring urgent action, children should never be removed from their jobs unless there has been discussion with both them and their parents.
