Almost every child, including those from high-income countries, is now exposed to at least one climate hazard, according to a new Unicef report. Half of the world's children are exposed to at least three overlapping climate threats that endanger their health, education, and survival.
Global Impact of Climate Hazards
Globally, children face increasing dangers from heatwaves, storms, floods, and droughts as the climate crisis worsens. More than one billion children experience at least three of these hazards simultaneously.
Papua New Guinea: A Stark Example
Striking footage released by Unicef shows children in Papua New Guinea swimming across a crocodile-filled river to reach school after a vital footbridge washed away during heavy rains and was not replaced. Hundreds of children make this journey daily across the Kemp Welch river in Launkalana, Rigo district.
Lorna, 15, is one of those who must swim across the river. The community owns a few small boats, but the youngest children are prioritized. "During our periods, our elders do not allow us to cross the river to attend our classes as they think it will attract crocodiles," Lorna said. "My dream is to become a teacher or pilot. We want a new bridge so we can go to school safely every day."
The bridge washed away in 2012, and the community has been unable to raise funds for a replacement. Challenges are further exacerbated by the climate crisis.
Lorna's headteacher, Charlie Vali David, noted the loss of the bridge takes a huge toll. "During monsoon season, heavy currents, dead trees, and debris block the river – causing injury and death. Many children fall sick from the cold, dirty river water. That creates a learning gap. Especially for the females."
Children's Climate Risk Report Findings
The report found rising temperatures and extreme weather stress infrastructure, with key roads and bridges hit, bringing dire consequences for local communities. Almost every child worldwide, including in high-income countries, now faces at least one hazard, while 123,000 experience more than six in their lifetimes.
"The lives of children continue to be upended by the impact of heatwaves, wildfires, droughts, and floods," said Unicef's executive director, Catherine Russell. "Half of the world's children are now living with at least three overlapping climate threats shaping their daily lives."
Regional Hotspots
Unicef analyzed exposure to eight climate hazards: coastal floods, droughts, extreme heat, fires, heatwaves, river floods, sand and dust storms, and tropical storms. The Sahel region of Africa is one of the hardest hit, with over 4 million children facing the triple threat of heatwaves, extreme heat, and sand and dust storms. Children in Asian countries such as Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Pakistan are exposed to more climate hazards than anywhere else.
High-income countries are not immune. In Italy, for example, more than 6 million children face prolonged heatwaves and drought.
Call for Action
Unicef outlined a plan to better protect children, urging governments and businesses to reduce emissions and improve climate adaptation focusing on services children rely on. Russell said, "This analysis can help governments and decision-makers plan better and invest more effectively in resilient services. When we strengthen health and education systems, and improve infrastructure with children in mind, we protect them from today's climate threats and help secure their future."
