Cultural and Social Dimensions of Child Labour in the Cocoa Sector

How western economies subtle imposition of their culture affect "actual" child labour eradication

The effects of Western cultural imposition on what Child labour is in the Cocoa Sector

Child labour in the cocoa sector is a complex issue that cannot be fully understood without considering its cultural and social dimensions. While economic factors undoubtedly play a significant role, as explored in our previous blogs, the influence of cultural norms and social structures is often overlooked. This omission can lead to interventions that are not only ineffective but also culturally insensitive. Anthropologist Clifford Geertz once said, "Culture is the fabric of meaning in terms of which human beings interpret their experience and guide their action" (Geertz, 1973). Therefore, any attempt to address child labour must consider the cultural fabric that shapes the perceptions and actions of the communities involved. This blog aims to shed light on these often-overlooked dimensions, exploring how cultural norms and social structures contribute to the prevalence of child labour in cocoa-producing regions. By understanding these factors, we can develop more nuanced and culturally sensitive strategies for tackling this complex issue.

Question: How can understanding the cultural and social dimensions of child labour contribute to more effective and culturally sensitive interventions?

“the persistence of child labour. This issue, deeply entrenched in various socio-economic fabrics around the globe, is a mirror reflecting our collective failures and the challenges of global uniformity. The reasons are as diverse as the cultures themselves.

In some communities, child labour is woven into the economic and social fabric, an ingrained practice where poverty and necessity blur the lines of right and wrong. In others, it's the product of unyielding traditions, where the hands of the young are seen as extensions of a family's survival strategy. Across different lands, the lack of education, political instability, and economic desperation perpetuate this cycle.

The eradication of child labour, therefore, isn't just a matter of enforcing laws or implementing policies. It's about understanding and respecting the intricate tapestry of cultural norms and economic realities while working within them to foster change. It requires a global perspective that is sensitive to local nuances, acknowledging that solutions effective in one region may not be applicable in another.

Yet, amidst these challenges, there lies hope. Just as our diverse cultures can coexist within a single, global sphere, so too can our efforts to address child labour be diverse yet unified. Solutions must be as multifaceted as the problem itself, ranging from education and economic support to cultural shifts and policy reforms.”

- Kwame Asamoah Kwarteng

Cultural Norms and Practices

Diversity in Cultural Norms and Practices

In many cocoa-producing regions, particularly in West Africa, agricultural work is a family affair. Children often assist their parents in the fields, learning the trade from a young age. This practice is deeply rooted in local culture and traditions, serving as a form of skill transfer and familial bonding. However, this cultural norm becomes problematic when viewed through a Western lens that equates all forms of child work with child labour. Sociologist Pierre Bourdieu's concept of "cultural capital" can be applied here; in these communities, agricultural skills and knowledge are a form of capital passed down through generations (Bourdieu, 1986).

It's essential to differentiate between child work which is a cultural norm and child labour that exploits children. The former can be a form of socialization and education, while the latter is detrimental to a child's well-being and development.