60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council
Item 3 - Interactive Dialogue with SR on slavery.
Statement delivered by H.E Ambassador Riia Salsa-Audiffren on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden.
16 September 2025
Mr President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for his latest report which provides crucial insights into the ongoing challenges related to eliminating the worst forms of child labour.
The data presented therein paint a deeply concerning picture of the persistent prevalence of these abuses worldwide. While the 2025 target to end all forms of child labour reflects a vital global commitment, it remains far from within reach. These figures highlight the need for renewed political will and coordinated global action.
We echo the Special Rapporteur’s emphasis on the need to sensitize the public through a holistic, community-based approach to challenge the norms sustaining the worst forms of child labour. Raising awareness at the community level is key to ending work in conditions of slavery.
In parallel, the growing use of digital technologies, though beneficial in many ways, has also brought new risks and opened the door to new forms of exploitation. The growing misuse of cyberspace highlights the urgent need to ensure child protection in the digital environment.
What steps can be taken to improve compliance with laws against the worst forms of child labour?
I thank you.