Data Collection
Ensuring that children are not harmed in cocoa farming requires a clear understanding of the nature and extent of labor problems, where they exist. The “data collection” component of certification fulfills this important need.
Data collection provides a credible, statistically representative assessment of actual labor practices on cocoa farms in West Africa Through data collection, we will know if children or adults are being harmed in cocoa farming.
Trained surveyors visit cocoa farms and farming communities, collecting information on working conditions, labor practices, and related issues such as school attendance and availability. They interview community leaders, farmers, and children and adult workers, both to identify potential problems and measure the impact of programs to improve conditions in cocoa farming communities.
With more than two million cocoa farms scattered across 30,000+ square miles in West Africa, it is impossible for the survey teams to visit every farm. Instead, certification uses a statistically representative sample of farms and communities to compile an accurate picture of the sector’s labor practices and related issues.
For surveyors visiting cocoa farming communities, obtaining accurate information is a challenge. Unacceptable child and adult labor is not easily detectable nor can it be measured through a few simple “yes-no” questions. Investigating labor issues requires carefully developed survey questions and extensive training of the surveyors.
The research is undertaken on a country-by-country basis with the active leadership and involvement of each country’s government.
Information gathered via the data collection process forms the basis of an annual certification report issued by the respective country’s government.
Data Collection: Key Areas of Focus
- Hazardous work (tasks, duration, physical/ environmental stress)
- School availability and attendance
- Indicators of potential trafficking (living away from home, parents)
- Indicators of forced adult labor (Are labor agreements in place and understood? Do workers have freedom to leave workplace?)