COVID-19 affected 2.3 billion children globally -Save the Children

According to Save the Children, the COVID-19 pandemic has so far affected 99 percent or 2.3 billion of vulnerable children living in 186 countries that implemented restrictions, including lockdowns and school closures.

In its global report "Protect a Generation: The impact of COVID-19 on children’s lives," the organization found that children are "disproportionately affected" by the hidden impacts of the coronavirus disease, although they were not at a high risk of direct harm.

The report mentioned a concern that children from poor households may reach 117 million globally this year as the COVID-19 pandemic also led to an economic crisis.

Save the Children was able to talk to more than 8,000 children and 17,000 parents and caregivers in 37 countries, including the Philippines, and asked them how they were affected by COVID-19.

"It is clear that the most deprived and marginalized children are being hit the hardest by the pandemic, exacerbating existing inequalities and pushing the most vulnerable children even further behind," said Inger Ashing, Chief Executive Officer of Save the Children International.

"For too many children, missing school means that they may never return; a parent losing his or her income means children go hungry; and increased pressures and stress on families mean that children experience more violence," Ashing added.

The report found 1.6 billion students were affected by the unprecedented disruption to children’s education globally. Further, at least 10 million from the number will not be able to go back to school, mostly girls and the marginalized and deprived children who lack access to computer technology needed for distance learning, and support at home.

Atty. Alberto Muyot, Chief Executive Officer of Save the Children Philippines said the report also reflects the situation of millions of Filipino children from poor households, such as those with disabilities and living in marginalized areas.

The global report found that less than one percent of children from poor households have access to the internet for distance learning, despite more than 60 percent of national distance learning initiatives relying on online platforms.

The global organization cited a report that violence against children was already at a record high prior to the pandemic, with one billion children aged between two to 17 experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect each year.

Save the Children urged governments to provide children with access to equitable health and nutrition systems, and child protection services including gender-based violence and mental health services. — DVM, GMA News