Improvements in the survival, health and well-being of children, adolescents and their mothers are urgent, achievable and affordable.

In recent years, there has been great progress to reduce under-five mortality. But much more needs to be done to ensure mothers around the world have the best chance for a healthy pregnancy and safe birth.

One consequence of the incredible progress in reducing the deaths of newborn children is that the aspirations of new parents and their communities exceed mere survival. They want their children to grow strong and healthy, to do well in school and to be prepared for a rewarding life. In this respect we are still failing our children.

Another consequence of the dramatic improvements in child survival is an unprecedented population wave of adolescents, especially in Africa and South Asia. One sixth of the world’s population are adolescents – that’s 1.2 billion people between the ages of 10 and 19. Furthermore, adolescents are the only age group where deaths from AIDS are increasing – two million adolescents are living with HIV. Pregnancy at an early age robs girls of their life chances. It harms their health, education and future prospects. Childbearing at a young age also affects the health and well-being of a mother’s children. They are more likely to grow up stunted, with their bodies and brains less likely to develop properly.

Below, you will find more information on how we work with partners to ensure that every child has the chance to survive and thrive.