The Quantification of Child Labour by Ghana’s Mass Media: A Missed Opportunity?

This study examines how Ghana's mass media reported on child labour between 2000 and 2020, finding that about 30 per cent of stories included numerical data. The researchers found that media organisations often used large numbers and technical language in ways that seemed designed to impress rather than inform readers. The study questions why Ghana's governments did not use media more effectively to address child labour as a policy problem.

Key points

• During 2000–2020, child labour stories frequently appeared in Ghana's mass media
• Approximately 30 per cent of stories included at least one numerical quantification
• Quantifications appeared constructed primarily to impress readers rather than communicate clearly
• Large numbers and heavy technical jargon significantly reduced the potential to inform
• Successive governments underutilised media as a tool to address child labour policy

Limitations

This study analyses media content and communication patterns rather than measuring child labour prevalence or evaluating interventions to reduce it. It does not assess the actual impact of media reporting on public awareness or policy outcomes.