UNICEF UK reaction to UK Government announcement of aid allocations 

Dr Philip Goodwin, Chief Executive Officer of The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) said:  

“The UK Government’s decision to cut the aid budget was always going to result in a deadly reality for some of the world’s most vulnerable children. UNICEF UK has repeatedly called for the world’s children to be protected from these cuts and the consequences of these decisions. 

“One in five children currently live in, or are fleeing, conflict.  Every day, children bear the brunt of wars they did not start and have no power to end. Children also need the on-going support of basic health and education services to ensure they can survive and thrive.   

“Without a deliberate and strategic focus on children, these decisions do not address the inequalities faced by children, with their unique needs and vulnerabilities. While the focus on conflict and fragile affected states, where many of the children furthest from their rights live, is welcome, children’s lives are also being threatened by climate, extreme poverty, national debt, deadly disease outbreaks, and lack of access to vital services. These children must be protected and supported too.  

“UNICEF UK urges the government to take decisions now to commit at least 25% of the remaining aid budget to children to support the full range of services needed to ensure they grow up safe, healthy and happy.” 

ENDS 

Notes to editors:   

For more information, please contact the UNICEF UK media team on 0207 375 6030 [email protected]     

About UNICEF   

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.   

The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) raises funds for UNICEF’s emergency and development work for children. We also promote and protect children’s rights in the UK and internationally. We are a UK charity, entirely funded by supporters.   

United Kingdom Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), Registered Charity No. 1072612 (England & Wales), SC043677 (Scotland).   

For more information visit unicef.org.uk. Follow UNICEF UK on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.