A team of sociologists is conducting research in a lower middle income country to assess the impact of income disparities on child labor rates. They find that despite a GNI above $1000, a significant proportion of children are still working instead of attending school. Given this context, which factor is most likely contributing to the persistence of child labor in this country?

One key factor contributing to the persistence of child labor in a lower middle-income country, despite having a Gross National Income (GNI) above $1000, is the significant income disparity within the population. Even if the average income appears to be sufficient, many families may still struggle to meet basic needs due to unequal distribution of wealth. For example, in a community where some families earn much more than others, those with lower incomes might rely on their children to work and contribute to the household income, especially if they cannot afford necessities like food or housing. This reliance on child labor can prevent children from attending school, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and limiting future opportunities. Thus, addressing income inequality is crucial to reducing child labor rates and improving educational access for all children.