by the Global March against Child Labor and other grassroots organizations. Children were invited to the event through selection where at the Congress they were able to interact and communicate their views on the most pertinent concerns connected to their childhood and adolescence. They disclosed their experiences, dreams and ambitions as well as partake in various activities that lead to the formation of Action Plans. The selections for the Congress were made through democratic consultation processes (nominated by other children) at the national and local levels. Most of the representatives were former child laborers that got assistance from education and vocational training in local civic organizations or treatment centers; however some were still working so they could pay for their education and some were chosen to represent associations such as trade unions and Child Rights Organizations. This Congress was significant because it was the first Congress where children were the focus and were the chief spokespersons, decision makers and recipients. Approximately 200 children ages 11 to 17 were in attendance. The children that took part in the Congress came from diverse backgrounds and cultures and represented various regions, countries and organizations This conference was crucial in understanding child labor and work exploitation Facts and statistics 1997: ILO estimated between 100 million and 200 million child laborers in the world 2004: ILO estimated that there were 218 million child laborers worldwide, with 7 of 10 working in agriculture To globally abolish child labor, ILO approximates an expense of $38 billion per year for 20 years. In 2001, Indian government confessed to having 12.7 million child laborers In Brazil to convince parents to send their children to school instead of work, the government pays families $4.50 per child a month. Currently, there are more than 1 million participants In Guatemala, female child laborers typically work 21 hours a week on domestic responsibilities coupled with a 40-hour working week beyond this. Events At a match against Germany on 17 April 2002, the Argentina National Team demonstrated their unity on abolishing child labor. They lifted a banner that read, "The only work for children should be to go to school" On 17 January 2004, the Global March against Child Labor celebrated its 6th anniversary in Quezon City. The celebration was held at the Occupational Safety and Health Center where more than 5,000 children and their parents marched from Quezon Memorial Circle to honor the