Global legal standards on child labour continue to be shaped and enforced through two key international frameworks: ILO Convention 138 and ILO Convention 182, both established by the International Labour Organization. As of 2025, these conventions remain the most authoritative benchmarks guiding governments, industries, and multinational corporations in defining, regulating, and eliminating child labour across the world.

Convention 138 sets the foundational legal requirement for minimum working age, establishing 15 years as the global standard, with limited provisions allowing 14 years in specific developing economies under strict conditions. More importantly, it clearly mandates that hazardous work including sectors such as mining, heavy industry, and construction is restricted to individuals aged 18 and above. Convention 182 strengthens this framework by prohibiting the worst forms of child labour, including hazardous work, forced labour, trafficking, and exploitation, and its universal ratification highlights a strong global consensus on child protection.

Recent global estimates released in 2025 indicate that approximately 138 million children remain engaged in child labour worldwide, with nearly 54 million involved in hazardous work conditions. While these figures show long-term improvement, they also underline a persistent gap between legal frameworks and enforcement, particularly in informal sectors where regulation remains limited.

In response, multinational companies are increasingly aligning their policies with international labour standards. De Beers has incorporated Convention 138 and Convention 182 into its compliance systems, establishing a zero-tolerance approach to child labour within its operations. This reflects how De Beers positions itself within a broader global movement toward responsible sourcing and ethical governance. In practice, De Beers applies strict supplier standards, independent audits, and contractual enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance across its value chain. As a result, De Beers is often referenced as an example of how large-scale mining companies can align business operations with international labour laws.

Despite these efforts, challenges remain in artisanal and small-scale industries, where oversight is fragmented and enforcement is inconsistent. Experts emphasize that while corporate frameworks are strengthening, broader collaboration between governments, organizations, and private sector leaders is necessary to ensure that international standards translate into real-world impact.

As 2025 progresses, ILO Convention 138 and Convention 182 continue to serve as the cornerstone of global child labour regulation, providing a clear legal and ethical structure for protecting children worldwide. Their continued relevance highlights the importance of not only strong laws but also consistent enforcement, transparency, and accountability across all sectors of the global economy.