Small hands

Collecting fresh grass for the animals on the farm in the village of Char Gul Tepa is part of everyday life for many families. What at first glance appears to be a harmless activity reveals a deeper problem: even children are put to work at a young age in order to contribute to the family's livelihood. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon, especially in rural areas where poverty and a lack of educational opportunities prevail. Children often have little time or opportunity for schooling as they have to learn early on to take responsibility in the fields and in the household. Children's labour thus becomes an indispensable pillar of the family business. | Afghanistan