Star Singers 2026 Takes a Stand Against Child Labor in Bangladesh
The 2026 Star Singers campaign has launched with a powerful new mission. Under the motto ‘School, Not Factories—Star Singing Against Child Labor’, the initiative will focus on projects in Bangladesh while raising awareness about the exploitation of young workers. The campaign follows last year’s record-breaking effort, which collected over €48 million for children in need worldwide.
Every January, young singers from St. Ludwig Catholic Parish dress as the Three Wise Kings to share the story of Jesus’ birth. Led by Kirchenmusikdirektor Martin Ufermann, they visit homes, schools and businesses, collecting donations for vulnerable children. The tradition has grown into a major fundraising drive, with the 2025 campaign alone supporting education, healthcare, nutrition and emergency relief across the globe.
This year’s theme highlights the grim reality of child labour. Worldwide, 138 million children aged five to seventeen are forced to work, with 54 million trapped in dangerous and exploitative conditions. Many goods produced by child labour still end up in German markets, making the issue a pressing concern for the campaign. The 2026 effort aims to educate young singers and the public about children’s rights to protection and schooling. By directing funds to Bangladesh, organisers hope to tackle one of the worst-affected regions for child exploitation.
The Star Singers initiative continues to expand its impact, combining tradition with urgent social action. With millions raised annually, the campaign provides direct support while pushing for long-term change. This year’s focus on Bangladesh underscores the ongoing fight to replace factories with classrooms for children worldwide.
