Child labour and import bans: a call for a cautious approach

As part of the expanding global landscape of business and human rights legislation, several countries have either implemented or are in the process of introducing import and product bans to prevent the market flow of goods made with forced labour.

While these legislative efforts are increasing, differing approaches are emerging as to whether and which forms of child labour should fall into the scope of product and import bans. There are important nuances that must be considered in developing tools to tackle child labour.