Brazil reports record low child labor and sets literacy goals

Brazil has recorded its lowest historical rate of child labor in 2025, according to IBGE data. The number of children and adolescents in child labor fell by 9.2% compared to the previous year, dropping from 1.65 million to approximately 1.499 million. Data indicates that over 95% of this reduction—representing 144,000 cases—occurred in households receiving benefits from the Bolsa Família social program.

In parallel to social welfare developments, the government's policy platform includes a target to achieve an 80% literacy rate among children at the appropriate age. This plan aims to continue the National Child Literacy Commitment through cooperation between federal, state, and municipal governments. The strategy also includes measures to combat adult illiteracy and implement national programs for learning recovery in late elementary and high school.

While the literacy plan outlines support for infrastructure, teacher training, and connectivity, it does not currently specify the exact year for reaching the 80% goal or provide a detailed budget breakdown for each component.