Poverty and social protection
Where every child can survive, thrive and fulfil their potential
Poverty is not just about money; it is multidimensional. For children, poverty can mean not having nutritious food, a place to call home, treatment when sick or access to a quality education. The deprivations are far worse for those growing up in humanitarian emergencies. And in all this, girls are at a higher risk of poverty because of deep-rooted gender norms and inequalities that limit their opportunities in life. Even across 40 of the world’s richest countries, over 1 in 5 children live in poverty.
Around the world, poverty has lasting consequences on children’s health, lives and futures.
Child-sensitive social protection systems – programmes such as cash transfers, health insurance and education subsidies – can help make sure that no child is left behind because of poverty. But globally, few children benefit. For almost three out of every four children, social protection programmes remain out of reach.
UNICEF Innocenti – Global Office of Research and Foresight generates high-quality evidence that helps countries establish social protection systems that reach children most at risk of discrimination and exclusion. Our research shows that integrating cash transfers with services such as skills training, sexual and reproductive health and gender equity can generate additional benefits.
We work closely with governments and UNICEF country offices to provide the data and evidence needed to make social protection programmes more affordable, effective and available for children and families.
