Mapping Report Of Legal Frameworks On CDW Finance In Lagos State, Nigeria
Exploitative Child domestic work (ECDW) remains a critical social issue in the world, Africa and Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State due to several factors militating against proper and adequate care and upbringing of children in Lagos State.
Exploitative child domestic work is fuelled by poverty and limited opportunities, families in Lagos, particularly those migrating from rural areas, often view child domestic work as a desperate escape route. Children, as young as eight or ten, are entrusted to strangers, their innocence traded for promises of education and a better life. However, these promises are rarely fulfilled as these children end up trapped in a relentless cycle of demanding tasks like cooking, cleaning, and caring for infants–their days blurring into an endless cycle of servitude. The consequences of this exploitation are profound. Education, a fundamental right, becomes a distant dream. Childhood, a tapestry meant to be woven with play and learning, is shredded by exhaustion and fear. Physical and emotional abuse are pervasive, leaving invisible scars that fester into adulthood. Stolen innocence haunts these children, casting a chilling shadow on their personal development and prospects.
OBJECTIVES:
The primary purpose of this mapping activity is to systematically evaluate and analyze the existing legal and regulatory frameworks, policies, guidelines, and financial mechanisms relevant to CDW in Lagos. It seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the legal and regulatory landscape related to CDW in Lagos, with a focus on identifying areas for improvement and presenting actionable recommendations. It is intended to facilitate informed decision-making, policy reform, and advocacy efforts that will ultimately enhance the lives of Child Domestic Workers in Lagos.
