The COVID-19 pandemic is having devastating socio-economic consequences on the lives of children and their families, worldwide.
While infections are decreasing and "de-escalation" plans are being implemented in some countries, the spread of the virus continues in other areas, including many low-income countries, with previously insufficient health systems, where handwashing (an essential practice for preventing transmission) is not possible at home for 40% of the world population.
On the other hand, the distribution of protection material (gloves, masks, glasses, etc.) and detection tests, is still necessary globally and is complicated due to high demand and movement restrictions. In countries in conflict, for refugee or displaced populations, homeless people, and communities with a high degree of informal economy, isolation measures are not possible, complicating the containment of the disease globally.
In order to palliate the effects of the coronavirus crisis on children, and especially on children in more difficult circumstances, UNICEF acts in the affected countries to:
- Keep children healthy and well fed.
- Bring water, sanitation and hygiene to vulnerable children.
- Keep boys and girls learning.
- Support families so that they can meet their needs and care for their children.
- Protect girls and boys against violence, exploitation and abuse.
- Protect refugee and migrant children and those affected by conflict.
