The child protection laws in Bangladesh are primarily governed by the following key legislative frameworks:
- The Children Act, 2013: This act provides comprehensive legal provisions for the protection and welfare of children in Bangladesh. It covers various aspects of child protection, including child labor, trafficking, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The act outlines the responsibilities of the state, local government bodies, and other stakeholders in ensuring the rights and well-being of children.
- The Prevention of Child Marriage Act, 2017: This act aims to prevent child marriage and protect the rights of children, particularly girls, by setting the minimum age of marriage at 18 for females and 21 for males. It prohibits the marriage of children under these ages and imposes penalties for offenders.
- The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2010: While not specifically focused on children, this act provides legal protection against domestic violence, which can affect children living in abusive households. It includes provisions for restraining orders, protection orders, and other measures to safeguard victims of domestic violence, including children.
- The Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 2006: This act prohibits the employment of children under the age of 14 in certain hazardous occupations and regulates the conditions of work for children aged 14 to 18. It also establishes the National Child Labor Welfare Council to oversee the implementation of the law and ensure the rehabilitation of child laborers.
- The Suppression of Human Trafficking Act, 2012: While primarily focused on combating human trafficking, this act includes provisions for the protection of child victims of trafficking. It criminalizes all forms of trafficking, including trafficking for forced labor, sexual exploitation, and other forms of exploitation.
These laws, along with various policies, programs, and initiatives, aim to safeguard the rights and well-being of children in Bangladesh and address various forms of abuse, exploitation, and discrimination they may face. However, challenges remain in effectively implementing these laws and ensuring their enforcement across the country. Ongoing efforts are needed to strengthen child protection mechanisms, raise awareness, and mobilize resources to better protect the rights of children in Bangladesh.