The rapidly changing context, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, has posed an important risk for children, including children on the move. Whilst in some cases, their living conditions have exposed them to the risk of contracting the virus, they have also been at heightened risk of violence and abuse. Measures to contain the virus have had an impact on children's support systems and routine.
With half of the population in West Africa under the age of 15 years old, it is imperative for COVID-19 responses to have a special focus on children, particularly those in vulnerable situations. Our members and partners in the Regional Child Protection working group, a coalition of entities working to strengthen child protection measures in the region, have joined forces with the ECOWAS Commission and shared key recommendations with States, to help mitigate the impact of the pandemic on children.