Journal of Islamic Law Research

Journal of Islamic Law Research

A Comparative Reading of Children's Economic Rights in the Legal Systems of Iran, the United States, and International Instruments

Type : Review Article

Author
Mahdi Mollaei
Assistant Professor, Department of Economics and Accounting, Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Management, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran.
10.30497/law.2025.248242.3775
Abstract
 ‌‌Context & Objective: Children's economic rights are a critical dimension of human rights, requiring focused legal protection across various jurisdictions and international frameworks. This article explores and compares the legislative approaches toward children's economic rights in Iran, the United States of America, and relevant international instruments. The review addresses the scope and comprehensiveness of these rights, examining whether current legal frameworks sufficiently protect children's economic welfare. The research aims to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas requiring legislative enhancement.
 ‌Method & Approach: The study adopts a comparative and doctrinal approach, systematically analyzing and contrasting the legislation and relevant instruments concerning children's economic rights in Iran, the United States, and international frameworks. Key legal documents reviewed include Iranian legislation such as the Law on the Protection of Children and Adolescents and the Labor Law, U.S. legislation including the Child Protection and Prevention of Child Abuse Act and social security laws, and international instruments like the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
 ‌Findings: The analysis reveals that in Iran, children's economic rights are recognized through specific legal provisions prohibiting child labor, mandating maintenance (Nafaqah), and providing protections for working children. In contrast, the United States offers broader legislative coverage through multiple statutes addressing child protection, welfare, health insurance, adoption assistance, and labor regulations. International instruments, especially the Convention on the Rights of the Child, provide a comprehensive, rights-based framework emphasizing survival, development, education, and protection against economic exploitation. However, each jurisdiction faces challenges including legislative gaps, enforcement inefficiencies, poverty, and discrimination.
 ‌Conclusion: Although differences exist among the studied jurisdictions, all recognize the critical importance of safeguarding children's economic welfare. However, to enhance protection, particularly within the Iranian legal context, the article recommends adopting additional legislative measures and strengthening enforcement mechanisms. Addressing these issues is vital to ensure the comprehensive protection and realization of children's economic rights across jurisdictions.
Keywords
Children'
s Economic Rights
Convention on the Rights of the Child
Economic Exploitation
Human Rights
Subjects
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  • Received 12 May 2025
  • Accepted 13 June 2025