Over Five Million Iraqi Children Deprived of Basic Services

Over Five Million Iraqi Children Deprived of Basic Services And Rights – UNICEF New York,

Dec 12 2012 12:10PM The most comprehensive survey on the situation of women and children in Iraq shows that 32 per cent of children under the age of 18 are deprived of many basic services, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said today.

The survey, launched today by the Government of Iraq and UNICEF, states that “major” disparities exist in terms of access to health care and nutrition, education, water and sanitation, protection, shelter, and information services, according to a UNICEF <"http://www.unicef.org/media/media_66724.html">news release.

According to the survey, 10 per cent of Iraq’s children – 1.7 million – were found to have access to all basic services and rights, while 32 per cent – 5.3 million – were found to be deprived of several at the same time.

It also found that 99 per cent of children are currently registered at birth; the mortality rate of children dying in the first year of life is 32 deaths for every 1,000 live births, which translates into around 35,000 infant deaths every year; and one in four children have stunted physical and intellectual development due to under-nutrition.

Also, while about 9 out of 10 children enrol in and attend primary school, only four complete primary school on time; and 1 in 3 children – 3.3 million – are subjected to severe violent discipline methods.

“With this clear evidence on where progress for Iraqi children can be made, UNICEF looks forward to supporting the Government to develop national social policies, plans and interventions that concretely meet the needs of all of Iraq’s children, especially the 5.3 million most deprived and marginalized,” said UNICEF’s Representative to Iraq, Marzio Babille.

“In line with international commitments and accountabilities, our ambitious goal going forward is for an Iraq that is fit for all children,” the UN official added.

According to UNICEF, Iraq’s Minister of Planning, Ali Yousif Al-Shukri, noted that the survey provides extensive data on the situation of women and children in Iraq.

“With these findings,” he said, “we clearly see where we need to focus our investment in the new development plan to further improve the well-being of Iraqi children, who, representing half of Iraq’s population today, represent Iraq’s future tomorrow.”
Dec 12 2012 12:10PM

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