Baghdad/ NinaThe United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned of the demographic shift, the growing repercussions of global warming, and the threat of connected technology, all of which are “major trends” that paint a bleak future for children in 2050, calling for action now to ensure better prospects for tomorrow’s youth.
Catherine Russell, Director-General of the United Nations Children’s Fund, said on Tuesday in a statement, “Children face many crises, from climate crises to online risks, and they are expected to worsen in the coming years.”
“Decades of progress, especially for girls, are under threat,” she said, marking the publication of UNICEF’s main report, which addresses a different topic each year.
She explained: “UNICEF identifies three “major trends” that – in addition to unpredictable conflicts – “seriously” threaten children if the necessary decisions are not taken in a timely manner.
Firstly, the demographic challenge. By mid-century, the number of children (under 18 years old) should be the same as today, about 2.3 billion people, but with the world population increasing dramatically by about 10 billion people.
Although the proportion of children is declining in all regions, their numbers will increase significantly in some poor regions, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
UNICEF points out that the economy can be “boosted” only if the necessary measures are taken to ensure that this large number of young people have access to quality education, health services and jobs./ End 8
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