PORTUGUESE CHILD LABOR - MANUFACTURING FOR CHANGE OR CONTINUING EXPLOITATION IN THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY

The prevalence of working children in Portugal is a controversial issu e, with more than 24,700 under-14s in employment. The phenomenon is mo st visible in the textile, clothing acid footwear industries (TCF) of the northwest around Oporto. This article presents an overview of the role of Portuguese child labourers. In particular, it focuses upon the TCF sectors, and outlines the causes. It evaluates the reactions to t he problem and assesses the likelihood of short-term solutions being s uccessful. In the longer term, it is argued that positive outcomes wil l be based upon improved education, an alteration in the views of the factory owners, parents and their children, and greater knowledge of i nnovative working practices among key companies.