UNICEF UK statement ahead of UK Government announcement of aid allocations
Joanna Rea, Director of Advocacy for the UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) said:
“As we await the announcement of how the hugely reduced aid budget will be allocated, our message is clear – the world’s children must be protected from these cuts.
“Across the world right now, children are suffering the impacts of conflict, displacement, climate shocks and extreme poverty. Children were also disproportionally affected by previous aid cuts. Cutting aid is not inevitable, it’s a choice, and children must not be the ones to bear the brunt of these decisions.
“Latest data from the UN inter-agency group for child mortality estimation (IGME) has found that in 2024, 4.9 million children died before their fifth birthday and almost half in their first month of life. This is hard won progress in reverse.
“These are entirely preventable deaths with functioning health services, immunisation, nutrition, clean water and sanitation.
“UNICEF UK urges the government 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.