What are the long-term effects of child labour on Manila's society?

Child labour in Manila leads to long-term societal issues such as perpetuated poverty, reduced human capital, and increased crime rates.

Child labour is a deeply entrenched issue in Manila, with long-term effects that ripple through society. One of the most significant impacts is the perpetuation of poverty. Children who are forced into labour often miss out on education, which limits their future employment opportunities and earning potential. This cycle of poverty is then passed on to the next generation, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.

Another long-term effect is the reduction in human capital. Human capital refers to the skills, knowledge, and experience possessed by an individual or population, viewed in terms of their value or cost to an organisation or country. When children are engaged in labour instead of education, they are unable to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for a productive workforce. This can lead to a lack of skilled workers in the future, which can hinder economic growth and development.

Furthermore, child labour can lead to increased crime rates. Children who are forced into labour are often exposed to dangerous and illegal activities. This exposure can normalise such behaviours, leading to higher crime rates as these children grow up. Additionally, the lack of education and limited employment opportunities can push individuals towards criminal activities as a means of survival.

Lastly, child labour can lead to social instability. The inequality and injustice associated with child labour can lead to social unrest and conflict. This can destabilise society and create an environment that is not conducive to development and progress.

In conclusion, child labour in Manila has far-reaching effects that extend beyond the immediate harm to the children involved. It perpetuates poverty, reduces human capital, increases crime rates, and can lead to social instability. These effects highlight the importance of addressing and eliminating child labour in Manila and other similar contexts.