Children's right to health

Why health is important

Health is a fundamental right and a prerequisite for people to live a dignified life. Without access to health care and treatment, a simple illness such as a common cold or diarrhea can quickly worsen and lead to serious illness or even death. Children are particularly vulnerable to diseases and health problems because their bodies and immune systems are still developing.

We promote health and reduce the risk of disease

The right to health also means that children should have access to preventive health care, such as vaccinations, clean water and sanitation, good hygiene and nutritious food. These interventions can reduce the risk of disease and promote the health and well-being of children. The right to health also includes children having access to information and counseling on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) to make decisions about their bodies and their lives.

By ensuring that children have access to health care, we are investing in a more equitable and sustainable future, where all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

How we work on health

We promote children's right to health by teaching about clean water, good hygiene, nutrition and vaccines. Simple interventions such as using mosquito nets or washing hands can reduce the risks of malaria or diarrhea.
We also work to improve systems for health care, maternal health and malnutrition Monitoring . By strengthening and supporting local health systems, more people can access care and treatment.
The right to health also means having the right to make decisions about one's body and to have access to accurate information and counseling on sexual and reproductive health and rights, SRHR. Erikshjälpen works to spread knowledge about and change attitudes towards harmful practices such as genital mutilation, early marriage and early pregnancy.