Children are at risk
In Bangladesh, 40% of the total population are children. These children, living in one the most densely populated countries in the world, face many risks. Bangladesh is prone to climate disasters like floods and cyclones due to its geographical location, ecosystems and population density. Children are even more vulnerable to these climate risks, especially if they already live in poverty. Poverty is also the major reason for children labour, affecting millions of children in Bangladesh
4.7M
Children are forced to work
Child labour
Child labour is common in Bangladesh, with 4.7 million children aged between 5 and 17 in the work force. A labour law exists, prohibiting children younger than 14 to work. Sadly, it’s difficult to enforce the law.
Children mainly work in the agricultural sector and the garment sector. However, many girls under 18 are forced into commercial sexual exploitation. The government of Bangladesh has created a program where children going to school receive a stipend, encouraging them to stay in school instead of working.
54%
Of people live in high climate exposure areas
Climate risks
Due to its location and its population density, Bangladesh is vulnerable to the risks of climate change; it is one of the most disaster affected countries in the world. Around 90 million people, which is 54% of total population, live in high climate exposure areas. People already living in poverty, will be even more impacted by climate change dangers. Children are most at risk, both for the direct impact of climate change like floods or cyclones; and indirect effects, on their education and nutrition.
56%
Of children live in poverty
Poverty
Despite rapid growth, poverty remains a major issue in the country, with 20% of the population still living below the national poverty line.For children, who are most vulnerable to poverty, these numbers are twice as high, with 33 million children living below the poverty line, this is 56% of all children in Bangladesh.They are more likely to become victims of child labour, taking away education opportunities which would help them get out of the cycle of poverty.
Together we can make a difference for children in Bangladesh
10,940
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
620
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
Harun, a father of 5 daughters, sought help from SOS Children’s Villages, to make ends meet so that his daughters could go to school. “This programme is one of our helping hands. Now we are self-dependent and can carry our children’s educational expenses” (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Bangladesh).
Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!
Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives