UNICEF Report Highlights Children’s Risks Amid Crisis

Why in the news?

UNICEF’s State of the World’s Children 2024 report reveals one billion children face heightened risks from climate change, pollution, and digital exclusion, requiring urgent global action.

UNICEF Report Highlights Children’s Risks Amid Crisis

Children at Risk Amid Planetary Crisis: UNICEF Report

  • Global Challenges: UNICEF’s State of the World’s Children 2024 highlights the impact of climate change, environmental hazards, and technological shifts on children worldwide.
  • Nearly one billion children live in high-risk countries facing destabilising climate, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
  • Health and Environment: Children are uniquely vulnerable, with air pollution harming their respiratory and cognitive development.
  • Rising temperatures boost diseases like malaria and dengue, while floods spread waterborne illnesses, majorly affecting children under five.
  • Extreme weather worsens food insecurity and induces trauma.

Regional and Demographic Shifts:

  • Population Trends: By 2050, the global child population will stabilise at3 billion, with South Asia and Africa hosting the largest numbers.
  • India and China will remain key contributors, despite population reductions.
  • Challenges in Vulnerable Regions: Many African and South Asian regions struggle with inadequate resources and infrastructure to meet basic child needs while facing significant climate risks.

UNICEF: Key Highlights

  • Establishment: Created in 1946 to aid children post-World War II; became a permanent UN body in
  • Mandate: Advocates for children’s rights, promotes education, health, nutrition, and emergency response globally.
  • Global Reach: Operates in 190+ countries with 7 regional offices.
  • Governance: Led by a 36-member Executive Board and Executive Director; funded by voluntary contributions.
  • Strategic Plan (2022–2025): Focuses on achieving SDGs, resource mobilisation, and inclusive growth for children.
  • India Collaboration: Supports child nutrition, disease prevention, disaster relief, and maternal health initiatives.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times