Matoka, Peter W. (1994) Child labour in Zambia : an analysis of the extent, nature and proposed solutions to the problem. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This thesis is centred on the problem of child labour in the urban areas of Zambia. The origins, types and context of child labour are extensively described as are the incidence and distribution of the problem by locality, trade and activity. The very definition of 'child labour' is uncertain with legal, historical, comparative, customary and academic definitions being somewhat contradictory. The differing notions are considered and reconciled. As child labour is mainly concentrated in the 'informal sector', the nature of this sector in Zambia and other poor countries is analysed. The limited opportunities for education, employment and productive and fulfilling self-employment in the informal sector are highlighted. An account of the historical origins and development of child labour in the pre-colonial and colonial periods is provided. An assessment of the measures designed to control or ameliorate child labour follows. This covers the work of international organisations, the colonial and post-colonial governments in Zambia, the voluntary sector and concerned individuals. The effectiveness and coverage of the relevant international conventions and local legal provisions and enforcement are evaluated. The consequences on child labour of more recent interventions by international agencies, for example the Structural Adjustment Program of the World Bank, are illustrated. Three main forms of analysis have been used in this thesis. First a descriptive account of child labour has been supplied using secondary accounts and unpublished reports. Second, the author has undertaken a comparative analysis, examining child labour in two other African countries as well as two countries in each of the continents of Asia and Latin America. Third, extensive interviews with child labourers themselves and those who are close to their plight have been undertaken, to provide the actor's own graphic and personal views on the issues discussed. The thesis concludes with an appraisal of the significance of the study, general prescriptive comments and some more specific policy recommendations designed to address and combat the incidence and worst features of child labour in Zambia.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (PhD)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Child labor -- Zambia
Date:	May 1994
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Department of Sociology
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Cohen, Robin, 1944-
Extent:	viii, 381 leaves
Language:	eng
URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/36097

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