This research study aims to investigate child labor in Irbid to provide a deep understanding of and knowledge about the socio-economic and cultural context of working children in Irbid. It also aims to propose intervention programs that maximize the effectiveness of the Family and Childhood Protection Society (FCPS);; an NGO in Irbid that works on issues related to children. Various study results have shown that children often work in dangerous and hazardous conditions where they are exposed to physical and psychological abuse;; in addition to exploitation in terms of minimal pay and long working hours. Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were used to conduct the research presented in this report. In-depth interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from all organizations working on child-related issues and from working children and their family members.

This report aims to review the status of children in Greater Amman and to conduct a capacity assessment of key institutions addressing children’s issues. Various issues are examined;; covering areas such as health;; education;; and socio-economic characteristics. This report also reviews the status of disadvantaged children;; including working children;; orphans;; refugees;; and children with disabilities;; in order to identify vulnerabilities and risk factors specific to them. Finally;; this report assesses the capacity of selected institutions addressing children’s issues in Greater Amman and proposes phased capacity building programs based on the findings of the assessment.

This report analyzes the nature of child labor in Jordan. Child labor is defined as “the active participation of any child less than 16 years of age in any economic activity;; regardless of the type of work;; the employer;; the nature of the job;; or the activity.” This report examines the magnitude of child labor in Jordan based on the existing information and the collection of additional field data (both qualitative and quantitative) on the causes;; conditions;; and consequences of child labor. This report also aims to identify sub-populations of children most at risk to child labor;; investigate inadequacies in Jordanian laws and legislation with regards to child labor;; and examine vocational training programs and existing non-formal education programs for school drop-outs in relation to child labor. With regards to methodology;; information on child labor in Jordan was obtained through both primary and secondary sources;; including previous studies;; interviews;; and a field survey. After careful analysis;; this report makes a number of recommendations which aim to combat illegal of harmful child labor in Jordan.