On November 21, 2024, UNICEF issued a critical call for urgent climate action during the celebration of World Children’s Day in Việt Nam. The report titled “State of the World’s Children 2024: The Future of Childhood in a Changing World” highlights the precarious future of childhood unless immediate steps are taken to protect children’s rights amid a changing climate.

Urgent Climate Action Needed
The event, held in Hà Nội, emphasized the pressing need to address the climate crisis to safeguard the environment for future generations. UNICEF’s annual report underscores that Việt Nam is particularly vulnerable to climate change, with climate-related disasters disproportionately affecting children. These disasters disrupt essential services such as healthcare, nutrition, education, and social protection, severely impacting children’s ability to thrive and develop.
The Impact of Climate Disasters
Recent events, such as Typhoon Yagi, which devastated northern Việt Nam, illustrate the harsh realities faced by millions. The typhoon resulted in over 318 fatalities and injured more than 2,000 people, while countless homes, schools, and health facilities were destroyed or severely damaged.
Silvia Danailov, UNICEF Representative in Việt Nam, stated, “Typhoon Yagi drove home the truth that climate change is devastating communities. This isn’t the next generation’s problem; it’s already ours. Collectively, we must do everything we can to protect children and their families from climate change and the devastation it leaves in its wake. Every child has the right to a safe and livable future.”

Commitment to Children’s Rights
The event also marked the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) on November 20. This year’s theme aligns with CRC General Comment No. 26, emphasizing children’s right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, which is vital for their overall well-being.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nguyễn Hoàng Hiệp, remarked, “Việt Nam is at a critical juncture in addressing the increasing impacts of climate change on its youngest citizens. The government remains committed to advancing policies and partnerships that protect children from climate-related risks while promoting sustainable development.”
Empowering Young Voices
To further highlight the importance of climate resilience, the Young Voices for Climate Action event took place in Hà Nội, promoting collective climate action and empowering children to be at the forefront of Việt Nam’s climate response.

Ito Naoki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Việt Nam, emphasized the collaborative efforts between Japan and Việt Nam in disaster management initiatives, particularly targeting vulnerable children. He stated, “The Japanese government intends to continue to contribute to disaster risk reduction for vulnerable children in the field of climate change in Việt Nam.”
The Future of Childhood
The “State of the World’s Children 2024” report warns that unless urgent action is taken, the future of childhood hangs in the balance. It forecasts that three major megatrends—climate and environmental crises, demographic change, and breakthrough technologies—will significantly impact children’s lives by 2050 and beyond.
The report calls for placing child rights at the center of all strategies and policies. It advocates for investments in education, sustainable cities, and climate resilience in infrastructure and essential services to ensure a brighter future for all children.
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