Birth Registration Increases, but 150 Million Children Still ‘Invisible’
Date: 2024-12-10 12:00
Source: United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
Summary:
A new report from UNICEF reveals that while global birth registration rates have improved, 150 million children under the age of 5 remain “invisible” as they lack official recognition. This lack of documentation has severe consequences for children’s well-being and access to essential services.
Key Findings:
- Progress in birth registration: The global birth registration rate has increased from 43% in 2000 to 75% in 2022. This means that more children than ever are being registered and accounted for.
- Persistent gaps: However, significant disparities persist, with birth registration rates varying widely across regions and countries. In South Asia, for example, only 67% of children are registered, compared to 97% in Europe and Central Asia.
- Disproportionate impact on marginalized groups: Children from poor and marginalized communities, including refugees, internally displaced persons, and children with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by lack of birth registration.
- Consequences of invisibility: Children without birth certificates face numerous challenges. They may be denied access to healthcare, education, and social protection programs. They may also be at increased risk of exploitation, abuse, and trafficking.
Call to Action:
UNICEF urges governments to prioritize birth registration and ensure that all children have legal identities. The report recommends:
- Strengthening civil registration systems: Governments should invest in robust civil registration systems that are accessible and equitable for all populations.
- Addressing barriers: Barriers to birth registration, such as lack of documentation, distance to registration offices, and fees, should be removed.
- Raising awareness: Public awareness campaigns should educate communities about the importance of birth registration and the rights of children to legal identities.
Conclusion:
While progress has been made in increasing birth registration rates, the “invisibility” of 150 million children remains a serious concern. By investing in civil registration systems and addressing the barriers that prevent children from being registered, governments can ensure that all children have the legal identities and protection they deserve.
Birth registration increases, but 150 million children still ‘invisible’
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