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Child Labor: Theory, Evidence and Policy

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  • Drusilla K. Brown
  • Alan V. Deardorff
  • Robert M. Stern

Abstract

There is a growing theoretical and empirical literature concerning the causes and consequences of child labor. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the policy initiatives targeted on child labor in light of the newly emerging theoretical argumentation and empirical evidence. We focus in particular on programs to address child-labor practices, and we attempt to evaluate these programs, given the empirical evidence concerning the primary determinants of when and why children work. Throughout, we find it instructive to evaluate the policies that have been adopted with the intent of reducing overall child labor in terms of the impact they are likely have on the welfare of children.
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Suggested Citation

  • Drusilla K. Brown & Alan V. Deardorff & Robert M. Stern, 2001. "Child Labor: Theory, Evidence and Policy," Discussion Papers Series, Department of Economics, Tufts University 0111, Department of Economics, Tufts University.
    • Handle: RePEc:tuf:tuftec:0111
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    JEL classification:

    • J2 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor
    • F13 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Trade Policy; International Trade Organizations

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