Iqbal Masih was a Pakistani child activist who became a symbol of the fight against child labor. He was born on May 12, 1983, in Muridke, a small village near Lahore, Pakistan. Iqbal's family was extremely poor, and when he was just four years old, his father sold him into bonded labor in a carpet factory to pay off a debt of 600 rupees (approximately $16).
Iqbal masih worked under harsh conditions, enduring physical and emotional abuse. Despite his young age, he showed incredible resilience and determination to change his circumstances. When he was around ten years old, he managed to escape from the factory with the help of the Bonded Labor Liberation Front (BLLF), an organization working to eradicate child labor in Pakistan.
After his escape, Iqbal began attending the BLLF's school for former child laborers. He quickly learned to read and write and became passionate about advocating for the rights of child laborers. Despite facing threats and dangers, he spoke out against child labor, giving speeches and participating in demonstrations in Pakistan and abroad.
Iqbal's activism gained international attention, and he received several awards and honors for his courage and commitment to the cause. Sadly, his activism also made him a target, and on April 16, 1995, at the age of 12, Iqbal was shot dead in Muridke. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and there are conflicting theories about who was responsible.
Iqbal Masih's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting against child labor and advocating for the rights of children worldwide. His bravery and determination continue to inspire individuals and organizations working to end child labor and protect the rights of children.
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