Save the Children underlines inequality and the role of governments in fight for child survival
Comment on the Unicef report, State of the World's Children
Tuesday 22 January 2008
David Mepham, Save the Children's Director of Policy, said:
"It is vital to look at the inequalities behind these figures. It is children from the poorest families in the poorest countries who are at greatest risk of dying. Poor people tend to live in places more vulnerable to economic and environmental shocks. Poor governance, fragile states, violent conflict and discrimination also impact on a child's chances of survival.
"These deaths are not random events beyond human control. Many are the result of political and policy choices taken or not taken by governments. Of the two million children that die needlessly in India every year, 70% are living in just seven of the country's 28 states. Child mortality can only be tackled when all children, especially the poorest and the most marginalised, receive healthcare and immunisations. Many of the countries that are making progress in reducing child deaths are providing healthcare and immunisations to all their children."
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