Children face different challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic from those met by adults. To make their voices heard, Terre des Hommes, a non-profit organisation based in Lausanne, Switzerland, launched the #CovidUnder19 initiative in April 2020. Terre des Hommes central mission is to protect the most vulnerable children in the world. The initiative mobilised young people, child rights activists, civil society organisations, and United Nations stakeholders.

 The initiative launched the “Life Under Coronavirus” survey worldwide to understand children’s experiences with the pandemic and their views on how they wish to get involved. The survey was designed for 8-17-year-old children in collaboration with international partners including the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children. Importantly, the survey was designed also with a diverse group of children representatives from 28 countries. It is available in 27 different languages and an “easy-to-read” version.

The results of the survey shed light on the effect of COVID-19 on the younger population. For example, >60% of children and young people reported access to better education before COVID-19. These results are used to inform policymakers, professionals working with children, and governments.

 To learn more about the #CovidUnder19 Initiative, visit https://www.tdh.ch/en/projects/covidunder19