9.2 pct of Bangladeshi children in labor force

17/11/2025 7:16

A new study has found that 9.2 percent of Bangladesh's children between five and 17 are working.



The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), in partnership with UNICEF and other partners, released the report on Sunday, the most comprehensive survey on children and women in Bangladesh.



Aleya Akter, secretary of Bangladesh's Statistics and Informatics Division, noted that the survey was more relevant than ever, given its expanded scope to include new modules such as anaemia testing and heavy metal exposure assessments among pregnant women and young children.



According to the survey, maternal anemia remains high at 52.8 percent and the adolescent birth rate rose from 83 to 92 per 1,000 girls.



These findings underscored the urgent need for improved maternal and child nutrition, breastfeeding, and expanded health services.



The report came at a critical time for Bangladesh and was a reflection of both progress and ongoing challenges, said Rana Flowers, UNICEF representative in Bangladesh.