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been supplied using secondary accounts and unpublished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 (PhD)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Child labor -- Zambia
Official Date:	May 1994
Dates:	Date Event May 1994 Submitted
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

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