Natural Law

Natural law is an ethical theory which states that there are eternal moral laws, and God has created human beings with the ability to follow this eternal moral law. This ability governs our reasoning and behaviour, and rules of right and wrong are inherent in people.

The first of the primary precepts is to worship God. Child labour, especially in poorer countries, often means children must work long hours, which leaves little time for children's personal growth or religious activities. Instead of being given the opportunity to grow, they are forced into working, depriving them to worship God through prayers or community activities. Without these opportunities, children are unable to fulfil the primary precept of human beings which is forming a spiritual relationship with God.

The second primary precept is to live in an ordered society; a lawful one, where it is possible to follow all of the primary precepts. An ordered society is one that encourages peace, well-being and justice. Child labour defies this principle, as it can lead to social instability, and everyone continues to live in a cycle of poverty and exploitation. When children are forced into working, they are not able to be educated which hinders the overall development of society as they are less likely to contribute positively to the society. An ordered society also promotes justice, which includes the rights of children. In an ordered society, there is a responsibility to protect children from the harsh and exploitative environments in which they work in and to ensure they live in a safe environment. Therefore, child labour should be banned in poorer countries so that the wellbeing of children is prioritised.

The third precept is to reproduce- this precept is aimed more to adults. However, it can also be linked to children. Some children may suffer from pyschological trauma from the emotional stress at working at such a young age, which could later lead to long-term mental health issues. This can negatively affect their ability to raise a healthy, happy family. Majority of the children also come from deprived and unstable backgrounds and may not experience the love and protection other children (who do not work) have. Their lack of time to play and form strong connections means that they are less likely to have the emotional stability to protect and care for their own family.

The fourth precept is to learn, and in particular, to educate the young. When children are working, they are unable to attend school which prevents them from getting an education and all the necessary skills they need to live a better life and end their poverty. This also restricts their opportunities for growth and personal fulfilment. The right to learn is something all children should have the opportunity to do, and this should not be stopped to work for their family's income. As a child, they should be free to grow and learn and play and by working at such a young age, they are unable to essentially be a child.

The fifth precept of natural law focuses on the preservation of life- defending the innocent and upholding the preciousness of life. According to this principle, every human being has the right to life and the protection of physical life- such as safety, proper nutrition and a stable environment. Child labour heavily violates this precept as it puts children's lives at risk due to the hazardous conditions in which they work in. They are exposed to dangerous environments and the long hours of physical work they endure can lead to injury, poor health and sometimes even death. Child labour in poorer countries does not follow the fifth precept as it does not allow children to live a healthy life.

The secondary precepts of natural law will tell us how to fulfil the primary precepts in specific situations. The secondary precept of natural law in the case of child labour would be actions which prevent children being exploited and ways to help preserve their health and well-being. Children should not be exposed to work that harms their physical and mental health or prevents them from having a proper childhood. Every child should have an access to education, which is key in children's development and growth. In poorer countries, stricter schooling laws should be applied which forces all children to go to school and would restrict child labour. Children should also be protected from harmful and dangerous working conditions, like in mines and factories, where they are exposed to injuries and exploitation. In poorer countries, there are poor enforcements of child labour laws, making them ineffective. There needs to be stricter enforcement in these countries which make child labour illegal and makes sure children are not forced into working for income at such a young age. 

Natural Law emphasises the inherent rights of children to live a healthy, fulfilling life. The primary precepts highlight how child labour deprives children of a connection with God, an education and safety. They are forced to work in dangerous conditions and so miss opportunities which threaten their educational development, and this continues the cycle of poverty. This ethical argument is useful as it offers a strong argument against child labour, by emphasising the safety and needs of children.