Across the EU, 19% of children are at risk of poverty compared to an average of 16% for the total population. Some 15% of children leave school without achieving a secondary education. Youth unemployment is about twice the average unemployment rate. There are pockets of communities where joblessness is the norm - 10% of Europeans live in jobless households - and may span several generations.

The main groups of children at risk of poverty or social exclusion are: children in lone-parent families, those in large families, those with unemployed or underemployed parents, children in immigrant and ethnic minorities’ families, and disabled.

We live in a society where the socio-economic status into which children are born is still probably the most important determinant of their well-being, education outcomes, and employment prospects.

Eurochild believes that it is absolutely crucial to take a child-centred approach based on the principles enshrined in the UNCRC. Such an approach ensures that children’s well-being is addressed in a holistic way and that their needs are seen from their perspective.

Investing in children and their well-being is not only a moral obligation but also an economic priority. It is probably the most effective route towards sustainable social, economic and political progress in Europe.