Costa Rica’s Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) has introduced a new roadmap aimed at eradicating child labor in the country by 2030. The plan, approved on November 27 by the National Steering Committee for the Prevention and Eradication of Child Labor and Protection of Adolescent Workers, sets out guidelines for building a coordinated system to prevent, address, and eliminate child labor over the next four years.
The roadmap was developed through a participatory process that included input from public institutions, employer organizations, unions, civil society groups, and with technical support from the International Labour Organization (ILO). It aligns with international human rights commitments such as ILO conventions, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and particularly Sustainable Development Goal 8.7.
Andrés Romero Rodríguez, Minister of Labor and Social Security, said: “The presentation of this Roadmap is a transcendental step that reaffirms the country’s commitment to comprehensive protection for children and adolescents. More than just technical planning, this roadmap expresses our determination to move toward a country truly free from child labor, where development is built on education, equal opportunities, and decent work for all.”
Eliel Hasson, director of the ILO in Costa Rica, added: “What Costa Rica does today has national relevance and also deep regional value. By reaffirming its commitment to Target 8.7 of Agenda 2030 and ILO Conventions No. 138 and 182—and by bringing together government, private sector organizations, workers’ organizations, communities and international cooperation around a common goal—the country positions itself as a reference point in Central America for how to build sustained state policy against child labor. This Roadmap shows that it is not only about protecting children today but about laying foundations for a development model based on decent work, gender equality and social inclusion—capable of inspiring other countries in the region to take similar steps with ambition and technical seriousness.”
Child labor remains one of Costa Rica’s most persistent challenges related to inequality and social exclusion. The new strategy includes actions targeting structural causes of child labor; strengthening data collection; improving case management; promoting responsible business conduct; increasing institutional capacity; implementing territorial approaches; and consolidating social dialogue as an essential tool for building solutions.
The plan sets measurable goals and indicators guiding institutional efforts up to 2030. MTSS will be responsible for monitoring progress toward these objectives. Authorities hope these measures will significantly improve conditions for minors exposed to hazardous work or under age 15 engaged in employment.
