ILO Voices Against Child Labour: A Media competition 2024

The ILO Media Competition is more than a mere challenge; it’s an urgent plea for media experts and students to use their platform and talents for a pivotal global endeavor: eradicating child labor. This competition is a beacon of hope, rallying media professionals to deploy their influence in sparking tangible change and combating child labor with fervor and strategic insight.

At the heart of this initiative are key objectives designed to mobilize and amplify efforts against child labor in Africa. The competition seeks to boost public awareness and deepen understanding of child labor’s complexities, engaging and empowering communities, activists, and media personnel in this critical battle. It aims to spotlight successful approaches across the continent in addressing child labor and inspire both grassroots and policy-level advocacy through powerful storytelling. Participants will explore various themes, including the harsh realities of child labor in Africa, technological advancements aiding its eradication, gender-specific perspectives, community-driven solutions, and the significant role of supply chain actors in industries like cocoa, coffee, cotton, tea, and gold mining.

The competition offers unparalleled opportunities for media professionals. The grand prize winner will be featured at the ILO’s “Knowledge Sharing Forum: Innovative Solutions to Reduce Child Labour and Forced Labour in Africa” in Nairobi, Kenya, in May 2024, with all expenses covered by the ILO. This is a golden chance to gain regional visibility and contribute to a vital cause. Additionally, ten of the top journalists will participate in a capacity-building event in Kampala, Uganda, in October 2024, fostering learning and networking. Winning entries will gain exposure on ILO’s digital platforms and at future events, further disseminating their impactful stories.

Eligibility extends to media professionals and students from specific African countries, with submissions welcomed in various formats like video, written media, and photo stories. The selection process will emphasize ethical journalism, originality, and the potential impact of the stories in raising awareness and prompting action against child labor. The competition welcomes submissions until April 30, 2024, with applications accepted via email or WeTransfer. Participants are encouraged to ensure their entries not only shed light on the issue but also adhere to journalistic integrity and respect for those affected by child labor. For more information on how to apply and make a difference through your media craft, visit the ILO website.