Massa's Profile

As Communications Manager at RugMark, I would like to respond to Deborah's thoughtful post about finding alternative sources of income for families when child weavers are rescued and given educational opportunities. This is an important question that deserves further consideration and clarification.

First, it is important to point out that most child weavers are not able to contribute to the financial wellbeing of their families. Most are bonded laborers who receive little to no pay. In 2005, 88 percent of the children RugMark found illegally working in Nepal’s carpet factories were not earning a single rupee.

In addition, studies show that child labor makes poverty worse. Children are employed cheaply or at no cost and drive down wages for adult workers, making it more difficult for families to survive.

RugMark works to end this cycle of poverty. We provide rehabilitation and long-term educational support to the child workers that we rescue, giving them the tools they need to achieve a higher standard of living as adults. Rescued child weavers above the legal working age are provided with vocational training and job placement, enabling them to earn a living wage and contribute more meaningfully to their families.

I hope the information above addresses your question. For more information, feel free to contact RugMark at info@rugmark.org. Thank you.