The COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing economic crisis is changing the lives of children and young people across Europe. We are witnessing a steep rise in poverty and inequalities, which threatens to deepen existing societal divides.
In summer 2020, EU leaders of the European Union agreed an ambitious recovery package and a budget envelope for the next 7-years. The priorities and rules governing the EU’s spending programmes will be negotiated throughout autumn. Against a backdrop of the pandemic and climate crisis, leaders across Europe are seeking ways to ensure our future economy is more resilient to shocks and able to operate within planetary boundaries.
Vulnerable people and communities undoubtedly paid the highest price of the pandemic in terms of health and lost livelihoods. While children weren’t the face of the pandemic, they have borne the brunt of its impact. Countries which fared best are those with strong public health systems, more equal distribution of wealth and more trust in government administration.
Investing in children and prioritising children’s well-being is an essential ingredient of building more inclusive and resilient societies. For that reason, Eurochild, in partnership with its national members, is organising a webinar series to bring a children’s rights perspective to Europe’s recovery. The series is organised to coincide with 20th November World Children’s Day which marks the 31st anniversary of the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
At each webinar, leaders from national, EU and international levels will share how respect for children’s rights is informing their decision-making as they build back after the crisis. Children active at local, national and European levels, some of whom represent the Eurochild Children’s Council, will bring children’s perspectives to the panel discussions.