The European Child Guarantee, one year later

Overview of the European Child Guarantee

Disadvantages and exclusion at an early age have an impact on children’s likelihood to succeed later in life. In 2019, the European Commission estimated that almost 22.2 % of EU children lived in households at risk of poverty or social exclusion.

The European Child Guarantee aims to break this intergenerational cycle of disadvantage and promotes equal opportunities for children regardless of their background. The initiative is part of the broader EU strategy on the Rights of the Child.

According to UNICEF, high-quality early childhood education and care has helped to reduce the negative impact of poverty on children’s education and healthcare.

European Child Guarantee today

Now, one year after the launch of the Child Guarantee, EU countries are submitting their national action plans to the European Commission, explaining how they will put the Child Guarantee into practice by 2030. They will report on their progress every two years.

In addition, a Child Participation Platform will soon be launched, offering a space for discussing issues of concern for children and to strengthen child participation.

Displaced children in the Ukrainian refugee crisis

The humanitarian crisis resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has also highlighted the need to implement the Child Guarantee nationally. To support the arrival of Ukrainian refugees, funding should be allocated to Ukraine, countries welcoming refugees, and Ukrainian families according to Commissioner Nicolas Schmit.

The European Social Fund Plus can also offer funds for governments to implement the Child Guarantee.

For more information on the Child Guarantee, watch this Euronews video: