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Advancing Children and Young People’s Health and Rights

News

Mar 3, 2025

Children and young people are the foundation of our future, yet their health and rights remain underprioritized in many parts of the world. The World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) has taken a significant step forward by developing a Children and Young People’s Health and Rights Policy aimed at reducing inequalities and advocating for the wellbeing of these vulnerable groups. Let’s explore the importance of this policy, the challenges faced, and the actionable steps needed to ensure every child has access to the highest standard of health and rights.  

The Urgent Need for Advocacy in Children’s Health and Rights  

Governments primarily safeguard children’s rights, well-being, and safety. This includes supporting families and communities to address the social determinants of health—factors like poverty, education, and access to healthcare that significantly impact a child’s life trajectory. Despite this, a startling study by Robards, Myers, and Klein Walker (2024) revealed that only eight out of 130 Public Health Associations (PHAs) globally and one Regional PHA have policies specifically addressing women, children, and youth. This gap highlights the urgent need for advocacy and policy development to ensure equitable access to healthcare and integrated support systems.  

Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child underscores every child’s right to the highest attainable standard of health. However, the World Health Organization reports that injuries, interpersonal violence, self-harm, and maternal conditions remain the leading causes of death among youth. These statistics underscore the critical need for targeted interventions and policies to protect and promote children’s and young people’s health.  

The WFPHA’s Policy Framework: A Roadmap for Change  

The WFPHA’s Children and Young People’s Health and Rights Policy was developed by a dedicated working group comprising over 50 representatives from Public Health Associations worldwide. This policy emphasizes the importance of integrated care and comprehensive support from birth to 18 years, ensuring optimal health and well-being.

Key recommendations include:  

  1. Equitable Access to Healthcare: Ensuring all children, regardless of background, have access to essential health services.

  2. Rights-Based Approaches: Engaging marginalized groups and recognizing children as active participants in decisions affecting their lives.

  3. Preventive Health Measures: Strengthening primary healthcare and promoting vaccination and early intervention strategies.

  4. Mental Health and Trauma Support: Investing in mental health services and trauma-informed care for young people.

  5. Cultural Respect for Indigenous Children: Addressing inequities by prioritizing self-determination and cultural respect.  

The Role of Public Health Associations in Driving Change  

Public Health Associations (PHAs) play a pivotal role in advancing the health of women, children, and youth. However, the research by Robards et al. (2024) found that only 10 out of 130 PHAs globally have dedicated workgroups focusing on these groups. This lack of focus undermines efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health equity and gender equality.  

The WFPHA’s policy serves as a valuable tool for advocacy, urging governments and PHAs to prioritize children’s health and rights. By adopting and implementing this policy, countries can reduce inequalities and create a healthier, more equitable future for all.  

Key Recommendations for Governments and PHAs

 

  1. Develop and Implement Policies: PHAs should create policy statements that advance the health and rights of women, children, and youth. 

  2. Invest in Early Intervention: Governments must allocate resources to early intervention and prevention strategies, particularly for mental health and trauma. 

  3. Promote Community Education: Educate communities about preventive health measures like vaccination and healthy lifestyles. 

  4. Strengthen Integrated Care: Ensure child protection, family support, and welfare services are adequately resourced and integrated. 

  5. Advocate for Equity: Address systemic inequities faced by marginalized groups, including Indigenous children and young people.  

A Collective Responsibility

The health and rights of children and young people are not just a moral imperative but a foundation for sustainable development. The WFPHA’s Children and Young People’s Health and Rights Policy provides a comprehensive framework for action, but its success depends on collective efforts. Governments, PHAs, and communities must work together to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.