reports It is the first of its kind to bring together existing data and analysis for all countries in the region on children’s rights, while highlighting critical data gaps that need to be addressed.
lack of data
unicef Regional Director Afshan Khan Said War, pandemic, climate change and the current economic and energy crisis in Ukraine threw many families into uncertaintyDue to which the health of them and their children is being affected.
“However, a lack of data on how these incidents have affected children’s rights makes it difficult to assess how we can Meet the needs of the most vulnerable children and familiesSo that no child of the area is left behind.
Loss
According to UNICEF, an estimated 35 to 40 million children live in poverty in Europe and Central Asia. The report reveals inequalities in access to healthcare and education for some of the most vulnerable.
For example, Roma children, with nearly 11 million boys and girls with disabilities, are among the most disadvantaged when it comes to access to quality education.
preventable deaths
Although the region includes countries with some of the lowest infant and child mortality rates globally, some countries have high under-five mortality rates. higher than global average, More than half of these deaths are due to preventable and treatable diseases.
Europe and Central Asia also have the world’s highest rates of children separated from their families or in care homes. Again, Roma children and people with disabilities are disproportionately represented in residential care.
The pandemic caused severe disruption to routine immunization services, with 95 percent of countries showing a lag in coverage. “As a result, every year, approximately one million children do not receive their scheduled vaccinations in the field,” UNICEF said.
toll on mental health
The global crisis also affected the emotional and mental well-being of children, and Suicide is now the second leading cause of death According to the report, among the high-income countries in the region.
UNICEF said air pollution iThe most significant environmental risk in this area, which affects an estimated four out of five children in Europe and Central Asia. Additionally, communities lack the knowledge and skills needed to protect themselves from the effects of climate change.
ukraine war effect
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has led to an unprecedented exodus from the country, and the number of refugees and migrants arriving in Europe and Central Asia from other parts of the world continues to rise.
host countries have been stretched to capacity Maintaining equal access to quality basic services, with gaps in areas such as housing and sanitation facilities, health and safety services, and care and support for unaccompanied and separated children.
social security program
Last year, UNICEF published a reportOn how the economic fallout from the war has affected child poverty in Europe and Central Asia, T. Since then, the agency has been calling on countries Expansion and strengthening of social security systemsincluding cash assistance programs.
Releasing its latest study, UNICEF urges governments meet the needs of each child, especially the most vulnerable, and to give priority to children In the collection and analysis of data.