Russia’s growing labour shortage has sparked a controversial debate: should children as young as 12 be allowed to work?
According to The Telegraph, Russian officials are considering lowering the country’s minimum working age and reviving Soviet-style youth labour programmes to tackle a workforce crunch linked to the war in Ukraine.
The proposal comes as businesses struggle to find workers, with many adults either serving in the military or employed in defence-related industries. Officials argue that giving younger teenagers work experience could help address labour shortages while providing vocational skills.
Critics, however, warn that the move risks normalising child labour and placing economic pressures on children. The debate has already drawn international attention, with opponents questioning whether wartime workforce demands should reshape childhood and education.
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