No, child labor under 14 is illegal in Colombia under the Código de la Infancia y la Adolescencia (Law 1098 of 2006), which aligns with ILO Convention 138. Exceptions exist only for light work in non-hazardous settings, strictly regulated by the Ministerio del Trabajo and ICBF. Violations trigger administrative sanctions or criminal liability under Article 232 of the Penal Code.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Colombia
-
Absolute Ban on Hazardous Work: Decree 1072 of 2015 and Resolution 1791 of 2020 prohibit minors under 14 from engaging in hazardous occupations (e.g., mining, agriculture with pesticides, or night shifts). The Ministerio del Trabajo enforces these restrictions via workplace inspections.
-
Light Work Exceptions: Minors aged 12–13 may perform light, non-exhaustive tasks (e.g., family-based agricultural work) under ICBF supervision, provided it does not interfere with education. Written parental consent and school attendance verification are mandatory.
-
2026 Compliance Shifts: The Plan Nacional de Acción por la Niñez y la Adolescencia 2026 tightens enforcement, requiring employers to report child labor incidents to the Procuraduría General within 48 hours. Non-compliance risks fines up to 5,000 SMLMV (2024: ~$1.3M COP) and corporate debarment.