Childhood in Andalusia faces a critical challenge, with nearly 500,000 children and adolescents at risk of poverty or social exclusion, representing approximately one-third of the region's child population. This situation is exacerbated in single-parent households, where more than half experience economic difficulties, according to Living Conditions Survey data.
Given this scenario, a breakfast-colloquium organized in Seville by a local newspaper in collaboration with Save the Children, under the slogan “A country with a future: Investing in childhood. A shared responsibility,” has placed childhood poverty at the center of public debate. The event, held on the eve of the elections to the Andalusian Parliament, brought together experts and representatives from the main political parties.
“"Children do not vote, but it is everyone's democratic responsibility to give them a voice."
During the colloquium, the need for strategic investment in childhood was emphasized, not only as an ethical issue but as a fundamental pillar for the region's future. A president of an economic and social council stressed that, although the Spanish economy shows growth, social progress is not advancing at the same pace, and childhood poverty is a key indicator of a country's future.
“"We invest little in childhood and we invest poorly."
Among the proposals presented was the implementation of a universal child benefit that covers the real cost of raising a child, estimated at 722 euros per month in Andalusia. This measure could be financed by generalizing a tax deduction in personal income tax, even for families without the capacity to deduct, through a negative tax.
The final round table, with candidates from the main Andalusian political forces, agreed on the priority of childhood, albeit with diverse approaches. Topics such as early care, mental health, strengthening public services in health and education, and fiscal measures to support families were addressed. Save the Children's ‘Veo, veo. ¿Me ves?’ campaign, which seeks clear and measurable commitments, proposes six priorities for progress in Andalusia, including the fight against poverty, protection against violence, and climate adaptation with a child-focused approach.
