Unicef - Statement on UK commitment to ratify Paris climate change agreement

22 Sep 2016 10:54 AM

Unicef UK Executive Director Mike Penrose commented on Prime Minister Theresa May's commitment to ratify the Paris climate change agreement by the end of this year at the UN General Assembly

"The Prime Minister’s announcement takes us one step closer towards realising the agreement reached by Governments in Paris. Climate change is a threat to the lives of some of the world's most vulnerable children. By ratifying the Paris Agreement, the Prime Minister has made it clear the UK remains a country that is committed to tackling this global challenge.

"Unicef UK looks forward to working with the Government to ensure the UK's continues to play a critical role in global progress. Action on climate change should be guided by respect for children’s rights as set out in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and consideration for the future generations who will be most affected by its impacts. Driving forward ambitious and well-designed action on climate change can simultaneously reduce harmful air pollution, increase children’s ability to survive and thrive in the face of extreme weather events, and contribute to eradicating poverty."

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