Why help children now?

Around the world, too many children start life at a disadvantage simply because of who they are and where they come from. Millions of children are dying from preventable causes, face poverty, violence, disease and hunger. They are caught up in war zones and disasters they did nothing to create. And they are denied an education and other basic rights owed to them.

All children deserve better.

Effects of COVID-19 on children

The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating consequences for children and their rights, widening inequalities between rich and poor, boys and girls. As the virus stretches health systems to their limits, children are missing out on life-saving health and nutrition services. The pandemic is leaving countless children without caregivers, out of school and in danger. Children and families least able to cope are being hit hardest.

Over 1.5 billion children have had their education disrupted. Children who live in poverty, refugee camps and conflict zones may never return to school – especially girls who are now at risk from early pregnancy or child marriage. And as poverty deepens, children out-of-school may be forced to work to make ends meet.

Children caught in the climate crisis

Compounding the pandemic is a climate crisis which directly affects children around the world and is the greatest threat to their survival, learning and protection. Without addressing the crisis directly, today's children will bear the greatest burden, especially those living in the most vulnerable regions in South East Asia and in the world. Save the Children has a unique role in empowering children's voices and encouraging leadership in the climate movement. We aim to support children – especially the most marginalised who are disproportionately affected by climate change - to be part of the solution and influence decisions by world and local leaders.