The underground economy in Gozo : the case of child workers

Abstract

In recent years, ample coverage has been given by the media regarding the phenomenon known as child labour. However, no real study has as yet been published regarding such a topic. But is child labour really a problem affecting the Maltese society? The present study stems from such a question and tries to estimate the extent of the problem in the island of Gozo. Research on child-workers was primarily obtained through the use of a questionnaire distributed in Gozitan schools supplemented by interviews. Various aspects of this phenomenon were highlighted in this study, particularly the effects on society and on the children themselves. Special attention was focused on the financial aspect of the problem and how it contributes to the flourishing of the underground economy in Gozo. Having identified and determined the extent of the problem, various suggestions were put forward which could help to mitigate the adverse effects particularly on the minors themselves.