Systematic review of child labor in latin america (2014–2024): Using the prisma 2020 methodology
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Abstract
Objective: To synthesize recent scientific evidence on the prevalence, causes, consequences and public policy responses to child labor in Latin America (2014-2024), evaluating the impact of multisectoral interventions and social protection programs. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 methodology and with protocol registered in PROSPERO. Original studies, systematic reviews and peer-reviewed scientific literature published between 2014 and 2024 in Spanish, Portuguese and English were included. The search was performed in Scopus, PubMed, ERIC and Web of Science, using reproducible equations and supplemented with relevant gray literature. The selection process followed the PRISMA flowchart and the risk of bias assessment was performed with validated tools according to the type of study. Main results: The regional prevalence of child labor was reduced from more than 12% to about 6% between 1998 and 2020, equivalent to more than 6 million fewer children in child labor. Comprehensive public policies and conditional transfers, such as Bolsa Familia in Brazil, were associated with a significant reduction in child labor and an increase in school attendance. Gaps persist in rural, indigenous and migrant areas, and the COVID-19 pandemic has partially reversed progress, with more than 300,000 additional children at risk of child labor. Conclusions: The reduction of child labor in Latin America is attributable to comprehensive policies and social protection, but targeted strategies, permanent monitoring and adaptation to vulnerable contexts are required to consolidate progress and avoid setbacks.
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