Programme

Conference Programme Overview

Across four days—one virtual and three in person—the programme blends high‑level political engagement, evidence‑rich technical exchanges, interactive learning, and a vibrant Innovation Fair. Together, these 30 sessions move the discussion from diagnosis to design to delivery, culminating in the adoption of a Conference Outcome Document to guide coordinated action by 2030.

Préconférence - Virtual Engagement

The conference opens by leveraging technology to ensure the widest possible participation. This day is dedicated to inclusivity, enabling stakeholders from across the globe—particularly those unable to travel, to shape the initial discourse.
A high‑level virtual dialogue will set the baseline for the days ahead, complemented by a marathon of 15 partner‑led side events showcasing diverse topics, regional successes, and grassroots voices. These sessions expand reach and participation, allowing partners to convene constituencies, launch tools, and share lessons that will inform the in‑person discussions to follow.

Day1 - Scaling Up Solutions
The in person segment begins with an opening session and a powerful testimony from a former child labourer, reaffirming the Conference’s commitment. The focus then shifts to pragmatism and systemic change—moving beyond identifying the problem to multiplying solutions. Discussions will explore enabling conditions for sustainable progress: political leadership, social dialogue, integrated social protection, decent work creation for adults and young people, labour inspection, safe and inclusive schools, and data driven targeting. Sessions will demonstrate how proven approaches can be replicated and adapted with fidelity and impact.
Day 2 - Emerging Challenges and New Opportunities
The world of work is evolving. Delegates will examine new risk drivers—including online exploitation, conflict and displacement, climate stress, informality, and fragmented supply chains—and new levers for change, such as responsible investment, data innovation, technology for safeguarding, and South–South and inter‑regional cooperation. The emphasis is on anticipation, prevention, and resilience, ensuring strategies remain fit for purpose in rapidly changing contexts.
Day 3 - Future Outlook and Renewed Commitment

The final day is about alignment and accountability. With Africa at the forefront, the Conference will deliberate next‑generation targets for eliminating child labour—ambitious, evidence‑based, and attentive to regional disparities—and consider mechanisms for tracking progress and mobilising resources.

The adoption of the Outcome Document will provide a roadmap for after 2023, cementing the political will of member States and partners.

Programme Features

Throughout the in‑person days, the Innovation Fair will serve as a dynamic space for delegates to explore practical tools, multimedia insights, community innovations, investment models, successful initiatives, and best practices.

8 interactive sessions will act as the “engine room” for policy development, prioritising shared problem‑solving, peer learning, and actionable takeaways.

11 curated thematic sessions will enable focused exchanges across policy, programme, and practice, covering the breadth of the integrated strategy:
Each session will connect evidence to action, showcasing scalable models, policy instruments, and financing options, and highlighting how social dialogue, social protection, and decent work creation combine to reduce child labour sustainably.