ECLT is cautious and concerned for the communities with whom we work as they may be affected by the coronavirus. We are working with implementing partners and staff to follow international and national guidelines on the pandemic, keeping the best interest of children at the heart of all work.
ECLT has community projects in six countries across the world, and whilst these countries are not as seriously affected by COVID-19 as many others, we acknowledge the importance of taking necessary action now to keep children, farmers and families safe and healthy.
The Foundation is working closely with our network of partners to ensure that staff are taking precautionary measures, following advice from the Government, and when and where necessary, scaling back activities. Travel from Europe to project countries has also been suspended.
Lack of access to education, health services and means to earn an income are key drivers of child labour and are also some of the consequences of the COVID-19 outbreak. Therefore, it is particularly critical that ECLT remains committed to supporting the communities affected by child labour in this time of uncertainty and vulnerability.
In regions where internal travel has not yet been restricted, ECLT is encouraging implementing partners to work with field staff to use social distancing measures, regularly wash hands, avoid gathering large groups, conduct meetings or workshops on virtual platforms where possible and avoid all physical contact.
We are evaluating the situation day by day, ready to provide additional funds if required to support communities with awareness raising materials or hygiene kits. ECLT is in regular contact with our implementing partners to ensure that field staff and communities are being protected from risks. We are also assessing and adjusting our approach to align with the evolving recommendations from the World Health Organisation and National Governments.
You can check back here for the latest updates affecting ECLT’s work.
