The UNICEF East Asia and Pacific Regional Office commissioned a study of children's vulnerability to climate change and their role in adaptation efforts in Mongolia. The study is part of a regional series aiming to raise the otherwise low profile of children's needs and capacity in relation to the growing international policy focus on climate change issues. This extract paper highlights the findings contained in the comprehensive report.
The report includes the views of children affected by climate change in Mongolia:
"In springtime, rocks roll down onto the playground… One of my friends was injured by a rock… We want to have a playground where we can spend our free time… This playground is dangerous and not in a good place…"
A boy, 11 years old, in Chingeltei, Ulaanbaatar
"In the last winter dzud, I took turns to herd our livestock... around 40 animals. I needed to dig the snow to help the livestock reach the grass, sometimes by hand. When there is a snow blizzard, I can’t see my way and I’m afraid of getting lost. I’m also afraid of wolves. My cheeks and ears freeze and I get frostbite… This makes my ears very painful by the evening and liquid comes from my ears."
A girl, 16 years old, in Khashaat soum, Arkhangai aimag
"Big floods happen in this area and I have seen a ger floating on the flood water. Strong winds destroy the fences around our ger, letting stray dogs wonder into our yard."
A boy, 10 years old, in Chingeltei, Ulaanbaatar
