Iqbal Masih

Iqbal Masih was a courageous Pakistani child labourer who became a prominent human rights defender at a remarkably young age. Born in 1982, he was thrust into the harsh realities of child labour, which he experienced firsthand. His early life was marked by the struggles of working in oppressive conditions, but it was this very experience that ignited his passion for activism.

As a member of the Bonded Labour Liberation Front (BLLF) in Pakistan, Iqbal dedicated his life to campaigning against the abusive practices of child labour that plagued his country. His efforts brought international attention to the plight of countless children trapped in similar circumstances, and he became a symbol of hope and resilience for many.

Tragically, Iqbal's life was cut short when he was assassinated on 16 April 1995, at the tender age of twelve. His untimely death shocked the world and underscored the dangers faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo. In recognition of his bravery and commitment to human rights, the government of Pakistan posthumously awarded him the Tamgha-e-Shujaat, a testament to his enduring legacy.