Child labour in vanilla and Centella supply chains in Madagascar: Evidence-based analysis

Abstract

This evidence-based report examines child labour in Madagascar's vanilla and Centella asiatica supply chains, combining legal analysis, a structured review of international and national evidence, and field-informed research. It assesses the different levels of available evidence for the two commodities, distinguishing verified findings from documented key-informant testimony, evidence gaps and areas requiring further field confirmation. The report analyses the international and domestic legal framework, the structural drivers of child labour, enforcement challenges, and the responsibilities of companies under international business and human rights standards. It also proposes a field documentation strategy for research in Moramanga, Farafangana and Vangaindrano, and concludes with practical recommendations for government institutions, businesses, civil society organisations and development partners. An accompanying comparative learning note draws lessons from Ghana's cocoa sector to inform child labour monitoring, remediation and human rights due diligence in Madagascar's botanical supply chains.Developed through Care Circle sessions and in-depth conversations with caregivers, the publication demonstrates the value of co-creation in producing culturally appropriate and community-driven resources. Rather than developing a resource for caregivers, the project created it with caregivers, recognising them as essential partners in dementia care and in shaping solutions to the challenges they face.