Making Children Count in Population and Housing Censuses
Proposals for the 2030 round
Highlights
The report, Making Children Count in Population and Housing Censuses - Proposals for the 2030 round, emphasizes the critical role census data plays in ensuring that every child, especially those from vulnerable groups, is counted and considered in national planning. Accurate and disaggregated data is essential for developing policies that address children's specific needs in education, health, and protection, while also tracking progress toward international commitments like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNICEF's proposals stress the importance of capturing detailed information on children, particularly those often overlooked, such as children with disabilities or in alternative care arrangements.
UNICEF's proposals were developed in close consultation with national and international partners, including UNECE, to ensure that countries in the Europe and Central Asia region are equipped to better capture the living conditions of children in their upcoming census rounds. This document reviews responses from countries during the 2020 Census and highlights key findings and challenges related to collecting data on children, offering targeted guidance to improve future data collection.
A particular focus of the report is on ensuring inclusivity in census practices. The proposals urge the adoption of methodologies that more accurately capture children with disabilities and those in institutional households, ensuring no child is left behind in national statistics. The report also provides insights into how different countries have approached these challenges and underscores the importance of collaboration and standardized practices for more reliable data.
The report was revised in November 2024, and the updated version is now available.
