Opinion: Climate Change & Vulnerable Children — A Warning On Threatened Childhood 

By Sumanta Kar

Climate change is no longer a distant threat, it is a reality that is already reshaping our world. Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and increasing natural disasters are impacting millions of lives, but the most vulnerable among us — children — are bearing the brunt of this crisis. In India, where over 30% of the population is under the age of 14, the ramifications of climate change on children’s health, safety, and future opportunities are devastating.

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Climate Change & Children 

Children living in marginalised communities are disproportionately affected by climate change. Many of these children already struggle with poverty, malnutrition, and lack of access to education and healthcare. Climate change exacerbates these challenges, making their survival and development even more precarious.

Extreme weather events such as floods, cyclones, and droughts are becoming more frequent and intense. In recent years, India has witnessed devastating floods in Assam and Bihar, cyclones along its coasts, and prolonged droughts in Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Each of these disasters leaves thousands of children homeless, deprived of education, and exposed to hunger and disease.

Climate-Induced Displacement & Loss Of Childhood

As climate disasters displace millions, children face the trauma of losing their homes, communities, and even families. Displacement disrupts their education, increases their risk of exploitation, and pushes them into hazardous labour or even trafficking. For children who have already lost parental care, the impact is even more severe. The absence of a stable home and caregiving environment significantly affects their psychological well-being, leading to long-term emotional and cognitive challenges.

A Barrier To The Future

Education is one of the most powerful tools to break the cycle of poverty, yet climate change is severely disrupting children’s learning opportunities. Schools are often destroyed or converted into relief camps during climate-related disasters, leading to prolonged periods of disruption. Children forced into migration struggle to enrol in new schools, and many drop out permanently due to economic hardships.

Additionally, extreme heat and poor infrastructure make learning conditions unbearable, reducing students’ concentration and attendance. 

Governments, corporations, and civil society must work together to develop child-centred climate policies. Investing in climate adaptation strategies such as strengthening disaster preparedness, improving healthcare access, and ensuring every child has a safe, nurturing environment is not just a moral imperative but an investment in our collective future.

Strengthening Disaster Preparedness

Investing in disaster preparedness is crucial to protecting children from the devastating effects of climate change. Child-friendly emergency spaces, and community-based disaster response plans can significantly reduce casualties and long-term trauma. Schools and childcare institutions must be equipped with evacuation plans and safety drills to ensure children know how to respond to climate-related emergencies. Additionally, training caregivers and local communities in disaster resilience can help mitigate the impact of extreme weather events and safeguard children’s futures.

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A Call To Action

As the world grapples with the climate crisis, we must ensure that children are at the heart of every discussion, policy, and action plan. We need urgent, sustained efforts to create a future where no child is left behind because of climate change. This is not just about environmental conservation; it is about protecting childhoods, preserving dreams, and securing the next generation’s future.

The time to act is now. Together, we can build a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and sustainable environment.

The writer is CEO, SOS Children’s Villages India.

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