The Relationship between the Authority of the Central Government and Local Government in the Protection of Child Labour in Indonesia

This research aims to identify, understand, analyze, and provide an overview of the relationship between the authority of the Central Government and Regional Governments in the protection of child workers in Indonesia. This study is normative juridical research analyzed using qualitative methods and explained descriptively, with data collection techniques in the form of literature studies. The research employs a statutory and conceptual approach. The results of this study indicate that the development of child labor protection in the perspective of positive law in Indonesia began in 1925 during the Dutch colonial era, marked by the birth of Staatsblad 1925 No. 647 Juncto Ordinance 1949 No. 9. Considering the current Manpower Act, the regulation of child labor has evolved compared to previous laws, with international provisions being adopted. Furthermore, in terms of authority and regional autonomy, Regional Governments have the right to self-regulate (self-regelen) and self-manage (self-besturen) their regions. Despite the lack of legal certainty regarding child labor protection at the Central level, Regional Governments can still exercise their authority to protect child workers, as exemplified by Pekalongan Mayor Regulation No. 65 of 2022 on the Protection of Child Workers.