Introducing New Due Diligence Principles for Child Labour Remediation

The Centre has introduced new Due Diligence Principles for Child Labour Remediation to guide businesses on the actions they should take to develop an effective and effective due diligence approach.

The Principles outline the key steps and areas companies need to consider to implement an effective remediation approach. The principles are also used in The Centre's Child Labour Remediation feedback forms which provide companies with feedback on their remediation approach. 

At the core of these remediation principles is the recognition that the child's rights should come first, and commercial interests or other considerations should not be prioritised over children's well-being. The principles clarify companies’ responsibilities to create comprehensive child labour policies, establish monitoring capacity in sourcing countries, and prevent or mitigate business practices that increase the risk of child labour.

When cases of child labour are identified, the principles highlight how remediation should be tailored to the needs of each child and respond to the severity of each child labour case. Remediation must be carried out with the support of independent child rights experts, and victims of child labour should have access to appropriate remedy and support.

Finally, when functioning government structures are available, the principles call on companies to support and build on these structures to create sustainable solutions and ensure that children's rights are protected in the long term.

Overall, the Due Diligence Principles provide a clear and practical framework for companies to take action on child labour in their supply chains. These principles prioritise children's rights and encourage a comprehensive approach to remediation. By following these guidelines, companies can play an essential role in remediating child labour issues in their supply chains. While The Centre will promote the principles more widely, they currently exist as a resource for companies in all sectors to strengthen their approach to child labour remediation.