Child labor affects 3.5 million children in Mexico, with 1 million in dangerous jobs

Child labor in Mexico affects 3.5 million children, with 1 million in hazardous jobs, according to the 2025 National Child Labor Survey. The issue is particularly severe among Indigenous children and those not attending school. The survey reveals that 12.6% of children aged five to 17 are engaged in labor, with many performing dangerous tasks in agriculture, mining, and domestic work. The prevalence varies by region, with the highest rates in Guerrero, Chiapas, and Oaxaca. Economic hardships are a significant factor, with many households reporting challenges like rising food prices. Despite a slight decline in child labor over the past decade, the issue remains a critical concern, reflecting deep-rooted social inequalities.