ORreorient the EU’s vision in favor of childhood and adolescence. Ahead of the European Parliament elections in June, Unicef publishes an in-depth report on condition of children and young people. Those most disadvantaged, because they are refugees or discriminated against, or live in poverty. But also how many, and there are many, suffer from problems related to mental health. And also those who are exposed to pollutants through food which they feed on and the air that breathe. A 360-degree reconnaissance, therefore, to photograph the major critical issues and propose solutions.
The Unicef report on the situation of children in the EU
«The EU is one of the most prosperous regions in the world, but High rates of poverty and social exclusion, mental health problems, exposure to pollution and numerous online risks deprive millions of children of opportunities and undermine the potential of the EU’s younger generations,” said Bertrand Bainvel, UNICEF Representative to the EU institutions.
Anxiety or depression
More than 11 million children and young people, according to the report The state of children in the European Union 2024 suffer from psychological distress. A fifth of young people aged between 15 and 19 suffer from anxiety and depression. A figure that is generally increasing in all countries.
Poverty or social exclusion
The report highlights that 1 in 4 children – 20 million children – in EU countries are at risk of poverty or social exclusion. This is an increase of almost 1 million children since 2019 in the EU’s main poverty indicator.
Pesticides and air pollution
Nearly 1 in 20 children are exposed to high levels of pesticide pollution, which can be particularly harmful to children and has been linked to harmful health effects and developmental delays. The report also notes that in 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, 472 deaths of children and young people were recorded in the EU due to air pollution, most of whom were under one year old.
Cyberbullying and online sexual abuse
The report highlights that 1 in 8 children aged 12 and over regularly receive unwanted sexual requests online. Indicating how rapid developments in digital technology can expose children to abuse: including hate speech, cyberbullying and sexual exploitation.
The EU for children: what is needed
In light of the data, Unicef proposes a series of solutions for the EU. Ranging from increasing investment in essential services for children to strengthening governance. The impact on children’s rights and future generations must be systematically considered in all EU policies and laws. The EU needs to improve its data base with a new data collection strategy that includes children.
There European Child Guarantee (Child Guarantee) must be observed throughout the EU: it involves the implementation of intervention models to reduce child poverty and promote social inclusion.
And a multi-year and multi-sector global strategy is also needed for mental health, in which to invest resources.
On the safety and well-being front, the Green New Deal: must guide environmental legislation and policies.
Finally, digital technologies: we need legislation that promotes safe use, addresses the digital divide and stimulates skills.
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