The Climate Crisis and Children in Africa: A Matter of Justice and Accountability

This report provides a comprehensive, rights-based analysis of how climate change is undermining the rights and wellbeing of children across Africa. It demonstrates that the climate crisis is already a child rights crisis, affecting children’s rights to life, health, education, protection, participation, and development. Drawing on legal analysis, policy reviews, empirical evidence and case studies, the publication examines the impacts of climate change on child health (including nutrition and disease), mental health, education, violence against children, displacement, migration, and conflict. It situates these impacts within African and international human rights frameworks and assesses the adequacy of continental, regional, national and sectoral responses, including laws, policies, institutions, climate finance, climate litigation, civil society action, business responsibilities and child and youth activism. The report concludes with detailed recommendations aimed at strengthening accountability, advancing climate justice, and ensuring that climate action in Africa is child‑centred, rights‑based and equitable.