RIGO DISTRICT — Unicef released the Children's Climate Risk Report in 2025, detailing global youth exposure to climate hazards. The report found that approximately half of the world's children are exposed to at least three overlapping climate hazards.

The report evaluated eight climate hazards, including coastal floods, droughts, extreme heat, fires, heatwaves, river floods, sand and dust storms, and tropical storms. The organization called on governments and businesses to reduce emissions and improve climate adaptation for youth services.

Catherine Russell, Unicef executive director, said, "The lives of children continue to be upended by the impact of heatwaves, wildfires, droughts and floods. Half of the world’s children are now living with at least three overlapping climate threats shaping their daily lives." Russell said, "This analysis can help governments and decision-makers plan better and invest more effectively in resilient services. When we strengthen health and education systems and improve infrastructure with children in mind, we protect them from today’s climate threats and help secure their future."

The report specified that more than 296 million children live in regions exposed to drought, extreme heat, and heatwaves. Additionally, over 115 million children face overlapping drought, extreme heat, and tropical storm threats. More than four million children in the Sahel region contend with heatwaves, extreme heat, and sand and dust storms. Air pollution affects nearly every child globally, and one billion children are exposed to malaria. More than six million children in Italy are exposed to prolonged heatwaves and drought.

According to the report, 123,000 children are projected to experience more than six climate hazards during their lifetimes, and more than four million children could face as many as six overlapping climate threats. Children in Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Pakistan face a higher frequency and intensity of overlapping climate hazards compared to other global regions. A footbridge crossing the Kemp Welch river washed away in 2012 and has not been replaced. Children in Launkalana cross the Kemp Welch river by swimming to attend school, and the local community possesses a limited number of small boats for river crossing, primarily reserving them for younger children. The local community has been unable to secure funding to replace the bridge.

Lorna, a local child, said, "During our periods, our elders do not allow us to cross the river to attend our classes as they think it will attract crocodiles." She said, "We want a new bridge so we can go to school safely every day." Charlie Vali David, a headteacher, stated, "During monsoon season, heavy currents, dead trees and debris block the river, causing injury and death. Many children fall sick from the cold, dirty river water. That creates a learning gap."