United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that decades of achievements in improving the living conditions and well-being of children worldwide are at risk of being undone. Speaking on Thursday, October 29, Mr. Guterres emphasized that investing in children is investing in the future.
The UN chief called for solutions to be sought to improve the situation of children across the globe, adding that these solutions must reach all countries, communities, and every child to benefit both the current and future generations. He stressed that the international community must not allow the progress made in children's health, education, and protection to be reversed.
This warning comes as millions of children worldwide face serious problems due to wars, climate crises, economic downturns, and growing inequalities. According to reports from UN agencies like UNICEF, the number of children living in extreme poverty, suffering from malnutrition, or lacking access to education and health services has increased in recent years.
Armed conflicts in regions such as Ukraine, Sudan, Yemen, and Afghanistan have had devastating effects on children. They not only face the risk of death and injury but also suffer from psychological trauma, displacement, and disruption to their education. Guterres emphasized that protecting children in conflict zones must be an absolute priority for the international community.
In addition to war, climate change has also become a major threat to children. Droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events endanger food security and access to clean water, making children more vulnerable to diseases.
The Secretary-General called on governments, civil society, and the private sector to renew their commitments to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, especially those directly related to children's well-being. "We have a collective responsibility to build a world where every child can thrive and reach their full potential," he said.
Source: United Nations
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