The Effect of Migration on Child Labor in Rural Areas of Raya Kobo and Angot Districts, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study delves into the effects of migration on child labor within rural kebeles of Angot and Raya Kobo Districts, North Wello, Ethiopia. Data was collected from 431 households randomly chosen across four kebeles. Data analysis Both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that the working-age migration reciprocally impacted child labor in the migrant households in the study area. Moreover, the migration of working-age family members exposes children within migrant families to extensive hours of labor. The Propensity Score Matching (PSM) analysis underscores that children residing in households with migrant family members exhibited a higher likelihood of engagement in family labor and dedicated increased weekly hours to work compared to their counterparts in non-migrant families. Some of the factors that expose children of households with migrant families are poor financial rewards of education and the expansion of other business activities that drain the financial benefits of migration instead of child education. This study emphasizes the importance of supporting legal migration routes to save migrants from participating in illegal migration routes. It also suggests increasing public awareness of the detrimental impacts of child labor. It places a strong emphasis on enabling rural families to use their migration earnings to fund their kids' education and well-being. A comprehensive strategy for sustainable development in rural parts of the study areas is necessary to address the issue of migration-induced child labor.