Children are at risk
Around 30.1 million children and young people under the age of 18 live in Russia, constituting about 21% of the population. Over 5 million people have emigrated from Russia in the past 20 years, with an increasing number leaving each year, in search of better living standards. As a result, children are often left with older relatives who may not able to adequately care and provide for them
1 in 4
Children live in poverty in Russia
Child poverty
At the start of 2022, more than 19 million people were estimated to be living in poverty in Russia, approximately 13% of the population.
One in four children, that is 7.5 million children, live in poverty. According to UNICEF, at least 3 million more children will fall into poverty due to the war with Ukraine that started in February 2022.
Children are disproportionately affected by poverty, facing long-term consequences on their physical, social and intellectual development.
1 in 6
Young people are unemployed in Russia
Youth unemployment
Russia has an unemployment rate of 4%, affecting almost 6 million people.
However, people who are in employment also struggle because of low wages.
Young people often find it hard to get work. Around 17% are unemployed and 12% not in employment, education, or training.
Experiencing unemployment as a young person can lead to a long-term social disadvantage.
1 in 5
Young children don’t go to preschool in Russia
Education
On average, around 20% of 3- to 5-year-olds are not enrolled in early childhood education programmes in Russia. As a result, over a million young children are missing preschool. However, significant regional disparities mean that in some areas, 60% of young children are not enrolled.
Early childhood education can be particularly beneficial for children from low-income families, setting them up for success in later stages of education and contributing to their social and cognitive development, as well as their social inclusion.
Together we can make a difference for children in Russia
Are supported on their way to independence
SOS Children’s Villages makes sure that all the children in our programmes have access to leisure, education and training. We make sure that young people have the skills they need to find a job – this way they can live independently. We also work with local communities, running workshops to help parents improve their economic situation. (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Russia).
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