Another Perspective- Jainism

How would a Jain respond to the issue of child labour in poorer countries?

Jains believe in living a life of non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya) and non-attachment (Aparigraha). These principles aim to minimise harm to all living beings.

Ahimsa, the highest principle of Jainism, states that violence, harsh words or injuring someone is forbidden and to try to minimise all harm. Child labour violates this principle as it involves exploitation and harm. Children are subjected to labour in hazardous conditions, exposed to physical risks that can result in injury, illnesses and possibly death. Ahimsa means living a violence free life, so a Jain would consider the conditions in which children work in as a threat to the child's health. Additionally, child labour causes harm to the child's physical, mental and emotional state. Often, children working in these conditions face trauma, anxiety and stress and this gives them emotional and mental suffering.

Asteya, non-stealing, means taking something that does not belong to you, whether it is material or non-physical. In the case of child labour, a Jain would see an innocent child's development and potential being stolen away from them. As they are deprived of an education, society is essentially "stealing" their ability to grow intellectually and have a chance of a better future. They would argue that allowing child labour is theft against the children's future, and therefore would aim to remove child labour.

Aparigraha, non-possessiveness, emphasises giving up attachments to material things (like wealth) and relationships. For Jains, Aparigraha means refraining from material excess and acting out of greed, and that wealth and material should not come at the cost of others' well-being. A Jain would state that the happiness of a child should not be compromised for profit. The exploitation of children for labour is an example of attachment to wealth. Industries or individuals who profit from child labour are driven by a disregard for human suffering and an attachment to material things. By reducing these attachments, children would not need to be working at age and there would be more ethical practices (like fair treatment of workers).

Jainism offers different perceptions of the issues of child labour, through its moral principles of Ahimsa, Asteya and Aparigraha. Jainism promotes non-violence, non-stealing and non-attachment which encourages society to prioritise the respect and health of children. It argues that child labour should be banned in poorer countries.