Child labor is a work performed by children often under compulsion and in violation of national and international labor standards for the profit of others.
Before the industrial revolution, children had frequently been compelled to work from an early age. But by the 18th century, their employment under dirty and dangerous conditions in the new mines and factories had become a cause for concern. In 1802, the British government enacted the first laws regulating child labor but they proved ineffective. In 1833, there was a law, which restricted working hours for children and provided for the appointment of inspectors.
During the 19th century, there were further laws and the introduction of compulsory education effectively limited child labor. Other Western European countries began to make legislation regulating the employment of children. The United Nations Convention on the right of the child contains articles requiring signers States to take measures against child labor. And agencies such as UNICEF are committed to protecting child labor.