Türkiye Expands Efforts to End Child Labour in Hazelnut Harvests

Participants explored issues related to child labour prevention, international labour standards and responsible business conduct in agricultural production.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for Türkiye has held a series of seminars aimed at strengthening local efforts to prevent child labour in seasonal hazelnut harvesting while promoting responsible business practices across agricultural supply chains.

The events took place in Ordu, Giresun and Sakarya between 11 and 13 May 2026, bringing together a wide range of public institutions, employer groups, worker representatives, academics and civil society organizations. The seminars formed part of ongoing ILO projects focused on eliminating the worst forms of child labour in seasonal agriculture. The initiatives are being carried out with financial support from the Association of Chocolate, Biscuit and Confectionery Industries of Europe (CAOBISCO) and Ferrero, both of which have supported efforts to improve working conditions within hazelnut supply chains.

Focus on Responsible Business and Decent Work

Participants explored issues related to child labour prevention, international labour standards and responsible business conduct in agricultural production. Discussions also covered the ILO's Multinational Enterprises Declaration, which provides guidance for businesses on social responsibility, workplace rights and sustainable employment practices.

Representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the Turkish Employment Agency (İŞKUR), provincial government departments, local administrations, agricultural and trade chambers, universities and workers' organizations took part in the seminars.

The sessions examined practical challenges faced during seasonal agricultural work and encouraged local stakeholders to identify ways of strengthening prevention measures. Attention was also given to creating safer working environments, improving occupational safety and health standards, and ensuring that labour rights are respected throughout agricultural supply chains.

Stronger Cooperation Seen as Key to Lasting Change

A central message emerging from the seminars was that tackling child labour requires cooperation across multiple sectors. Participants stressed that government agencies, employers, workers' organizations, local communities and supply chain actors all have a role to play in protecting children and improving working conditions. Speakers highlighted the value of social dialogue and coordinated action in addressing the root causes of child labour. Building stronger partnerships at the local level was seen as an important step toward creating more sustainable and responsible agricultural practices.

The ILO Office for Türkiye said the seminars are intended to strengthen local institutional engagement and encourage preventive approaches that can reduce child labour risks before they occur. The organization also supports greater coordination among stakeholders involved in seasonal hazelnut production. These efforts contribute to Türkiye's broader commitment to eliminating child labour through Alliance 8.7, a global partnership dedicated to ending child labour, forced labour and human trafficking. As a Pathfinder Country within the initiative, Türkiye continues to play an active role in advancing international efforts to protect vulnerable workers and promote decent work opportunities.