Mining Black Gold from the Dark Tank

This article discusses the condition and perspective of child labourers working in the asphalt and oil residue collection industry in Banyusugih village, Central Java, Indonesia. Employing ethnographic research for six months in Banyusugih village, I was able to conduct 8 recorded interviews, 52 informal interviews, 33 unrecorded interviews, and 5 focus group discussions. This study explores the children's motivation, working techniques, income spending and their parents' involvement in their decision to work in this dangerous area. This article argues that the involvement of children in this sector is systemic and can only be diminished by providing them with better opportunities that are feasible for them.

Education and Labor Relations · Legal and Social Justice Studies · Poverty, Education, and Child Welfare