ECA Hosts High-Level Discussion On Climate Change's Impact On Children's Development During UNGA79

The WED Movement, led by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), recently organised a significant roundtable in New York. This event was part of the UN General Assembly and New York Climate Week 2024. The discussion, titled "Safeguarding the Next Generation in a Changing Climate," aimed to address climate change's impact on children's development.

Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chair of the WED Initiative, hosted the event. She was supported by Mohamed Hamad Almazrouei from the ECA. The roundtable featured prominent figures like Ana Almanzar, Deputy Mayor of New York City; Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation; and Janti Soeripto, CEO of Save the Children US.

During her opening remarks, Reem Al Hashimy highlighted the urgent need to tackle climate change's effects on children. She stated, "We are honoured to host a space to facilitate constructive discussions toward promoting peace, security, and prosperity for the environment and future generations." The event underscored how climate-related disasters pose global health challenges.

Participants discussed solutions that support early childhood development amid these challenges. They emphasised international cooperation as crucial for creating safe environments for children. Al Hashimy noted that "The 79th session of the UN General Assembly and Climate Week presents a critical opportunity to strengthen international cooperation."

The UAE is committed to improving children's well-being worldwide. Al Hashimy expressed this dedication by stating that Abu Dhabi will host an Early Childhood Week to promote global dialogue on child development themes. This initiative aligns with the UAE's goal of nurturing children's health for a prosperous future.

The discussion also focused on how rising temperatures and extreme weather events directly affect young children. These conditions increase risks such as disease, hunger, and malnutrition. Al Hashimy stressed the need for swift action: "We need to quickly get ahead in the response to climate change because it’s currently moving faster than we are."

Future Initiatives

The ECA concluded its activities in New York by inviting leaders in early childhood development to join "Abu Dhabi Childhood Week." Scheduled from 29th October to 2nd November 2024, this event is part of the global WED Movement. It aims to inspire optimal outcomes in early childhood development.

This initiative seeks to positively impact children's lives and society at large. By showcasing its work at international forums like this roundtable, the ECA continues advocating for early childhood development while collaborating with leading organisations aligned with its mission.

With inputs from WAM