Child labour, agency and family dynamics

Abstract

In the last three decades, the development of the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector has been increasing in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), bringing more and more urban families into this flourishing business sector, and among them, children. This article aims to look at the often unconceivable, and as a result neglected, social agency of children even when they are involved in activities which are, in the international legislation on children's rights, categorized as one of the worst forms of child labour. To do so, it relies on the results of a socio-anthropological collective research project on children's mining activities which was carried out in a small locality called La Ruashi in the city of Lubumbashi (Province of Katanga). The article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these child mining-related activities by looking at different spheres of social relations within which children are embedded. Examining the set of social relations that children have with their families, the broader community and their 'peers', several 'family portraits' are offered, highlighting a heterogeneity of social interpretations regarding this form of child work. It is shown that for families from a middle-class background, this kind of work is often socially disruptive, at the forefront of intergenerational conflict. As for families from lower classes, social changes induced by children's mining activities are often better incorporated into the family habitus. Common dynamics, encountered in all families irrespective of class belonging, is also portrayed. KeywordsChildren's agency, child work in artisanal mining, interdependencies, intergenerational relationships, social differentiation of childhood

Acceptance, obedience and resistance: Children's perceptions of street trading in Nigeria

“…On the one hand, it can operate alongside schooling, deliver immediate financial benefits and allow children to develop skills and operate with some agency. Even studies of more hazardous labour, such as mining (André & Godin, 2013;Okyere, 2013), have found that there are opportunities for children to show initiative, gain respect and contribute to school costs within the context of intergenerational structures. Yet on the other hand, trading is exhausting, frequently displaces schooling and leaves children resentful and conflicted.…”

Masturbation and Substance Abuse among Street Children of Harare Central Business District, Zimbabwe

“…According to Andrea and Godin (2014), the children in Katanga area in Democratic Republic of Congo as social actors demonstrated their agency through contributing towards household income. The authors added that the children exercised their agency in artisanal mining sector besides growing international pressure that the activities were part of the 'worst forms of child labour.…”

Does the education system matter? Exploring in-depth joint school attendance, hazardous and non-hazardous activities in artisanal and small-scale mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

“…According to Faber et al [ 16 ], engaging in work hurts children's attendance and performance in school. Balancing both work and school can even lead to dropout rates as children prioritise earning money [ 2 , 17 , 18 ]. However, working and earning money can also provide the means to afford school fees, since education is generally not free [ 19 ].…”