Resources

In 2019, the International Cocoa Initiative worked with its partners to tackle child labour in cocoa communities by implementing responsible supply chain monitoring and community development work to support farming families.

In this short animation, learn more about the CLMRS and how it works.

In 2018, the International Cocoa Initiative worked to support communities, reinforce supply chains, engage with national authorities and advocate internationally for cocoa that is sustainable and free of child labour. By the end of 2018, ICI’s direct action had benefited 287,762 children, and the organisation is on course to realise its target of directly assisting 375,000 children, as part of its broader goal of improving child protection for 1 million children in cocoa growing areas by 2020. ICI also launched new innovation projects in three core areas in 2018 — quality education, expansion

The Cocoa Barometer 2018 provides an overview of the current sustainability developments in the cocoa sector and highlights critical issues that are not receiving sufficient attention at present.

Child labour is prevalent in cocoa-producing regions of Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. In most cases, the children are working within the family unit and not earning an income. Poverty, lack of affordable labour and lack of post-primary educational opportunities are among the main reasons why children are engaged in child labour. By providing labour services at an affordable rate below market price, Community Service Groups are providing cocoa farmers with an alternative to child labour.