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Unicef UK Executive Director David Bull commented on the reaction to UK Government's climate finance announcement.

“From floods and droughts to typhoons and other weather-related emergencies, the effects of climate change are already putting the lives and wellbeing of millions of children across the world in danger. The poorest and most marginalised children who live in communities that are least able to survive these challenges will be affected the worst. Without funding and support it will not be possible to keep these children and their families safe, or to prevent others from being returned to poverty as a result of climate change.

“We strongly welcome this announcement from the UK Government, and its leadership in pledging to provide vital help to desperate communities whose lives are already being turned upside down by climate change. There is much that can and needs to be done to keep children in danger safe, now and in the future; from building homes and schools that can withstand extreme weather conditions to protecting water supplies from flooding. Acting now and helping communities build resilience in the face of climate change is a sensible and cost effective course of action. Well prepared communities are less likely to have to start again each time a disaster hits, or to take the drastic decision to leave their homes and seek safety elsewhere. The deepening refugee and migration crisis in Europe has shocked the world and brought the plight of those forced to flee their homes and everything they know into stark focus. Without strong and determined global action to tackle climate change, rising sea levels, extreme weather and resource scarcity could lead to crises even more serious than this one becoming the norm.”

Notes for editors:

For further information please contact the Unicef UK Press Office on +44 (0)20 7375 6030 or media@unicef.org.uk

About Unicef

Unicef is the world’s leading organisation for children, promoting the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.  

Unicef UK raises funds to protect children in danger, transform their lives and build a safer world for tomorrow’s children.  As a registered charity we raise funds through donations from individuals, organisations and companies and we lobby and campaign to keep children safe. Unicef UK also runs programmes in schools, hospitals and with local authorities in the UK. For more information please visit unicef.org.uk