Steps the Government needs to take to ensure children and young people are at the heart of its decision making.

These priorities include Five steps the Government can take to ensure a liveable planet for Every Child and Three steps the Government can take to move children out of poverty.

“Climate action is one of the biggest issues that young people identify as critical to their futures,” says UNICEF Aotearoa CEO, Michelle Sharp.

“Our Young Ambassadors want a strong non-partisan commitment to the climate crisis and for young people to be included at the decision-making table. It is essential that the Government ensures children and young people have a say in their future, beginning by establishing a youth climate advisory committee,” says Sharp.

While political parties are talking about a cost-of-living crisis, young people are calling it a cost-of-surviving crisis.  

These three steps target areas that will make a material difference to children's lives by improving financial resources, and stability for whānau, addressing food security by providing nutritious meals for all children, and ensuring that all children have a warm, safe and dry home.  

“The impact of these three steps is immeasurable. By investing in our children now, we pay less later, and ensure that children can reach their full potential by reducing the long-term effects of poverty,” says Sharp.