Children in Crisis: Seeking Child-Sensitive Policy Responses - Rethinking International Development Series

Synopsis

We live in a world prone to crises and shocks to economies, societies and the broader environment. Our interconnectedness now serves to transmit the ripple effects of such crises from far regions to our very doorsteps, and it is poor families that often suffer the most. During these times, malnutrition, reduced caring time and under-education are among the many adverse repercussions for children. Research suggests that not only do they get hit hard during these crises, but they are also often left behind during the recovery resulting in often-permanent scars. Experts from the global North and South analyze the implications of economic crises on children with a particular focus on the emerging evidence from the economic crisis and food and fuel price volatility of 2008-2010. They look at some of the key policy responses deployed by governments and international agencies, and introduce alternatives designed to prevent the crisis from creating permanent harm for children and to promote stronger resilience against future crises.