UNICEF: 20% of the world’s children still trapped in extreme poverty

Almost 90 percent of these children live in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, but even in high-income countries, 23 percent live on incomes well below those of their peers.

“It doesn’t have to be this way.” UNICEF said Executive Director Catherine Russell. “When governments commit to ending child poverty by implementing effective policies, they can open up a world of possibilities for children..”

The report draws on data from more than 130 low- and middle-income countries, assessing deprivation in six areas: education, health, nutrition, housing, sanitation and water.

Why it matters

Poverty undermines children’s health, development and learning, leading to poorer employment prospects, shorter lifespans and higher rates of depression and anxiety.

UNICEF notes that 118 million children are deprived in at least three of the areas studied. These results come as many governments are reducing their foreign aid. The agency warns that budget cuts could keep six million more children out of school by next year.

This year World Children’s Day theme My day, my rights highlights children’s voices and their lived experiences.

Results

• Child poverty is most concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
• In low-income countries, 65 percent of children do not have access to toilets, increasing their exposure to disease.
• Deprivation in low- and middle-income countries has fallen from 51 percent in 2013 to 41 percent in 2023, but progress is stalling due to conflict, climate pressures, technology divides and funding cuts.
• National policies can change outcomes: Tanzania reduced so-called multidimensional child poverty by 46 percent between 2000 and 2023 and Bangladesh by 32 percent, thanks to government-led social protection programs.

How to reduce child poverty

• Make ending child poverty a national priority.
• Integrate the needs of children into economic policies and budgets.
• Provide social protection programs, including cash assistance to families.
• Expand access to essential services: education, healthcare, water, sanitation, nutrition and housing.
• Promote decent work for parents and guardians to strengthen household stability.