the possibilities for policies that are inclusive and equitable. Again,
history may provide some guidance on how UNICEF can
effectively engage in advocacy for equity.
Conclusion
In UNICEF’s involvements with economists over the years, there
are many lessons for today:
- The many links between children and development are well
deserving of more attention from economists, with concern for
issues that go far beyond investment in human capital or social
welfare.- Human development provides a better frame for this analysis
than orthodox development economics or neo-classical theory.
Strengthening human capabilities in the early stages of life as a
step towards broadening choices and ensuring human rights are
essential points for the analysis.- Though the MDGs are important priorities, concern for
children even today must be set in a broader frame to reduce
inequality and ensure fulfilment of children’s rights. UNICEF’s
country programme approach provides a mechanism for
exploring country-by-country what this should involve.Hopes for children – one’s own and children of one’s community,
country and the world - are a reminder that development needs to
be seen as a broad process of human advance and discovery.
Thinking about children means thinking about the future.
Economists can help with this, but they need to be sensitive to a
wide range of children’s issues if they are to do so.
References
Black, M. (1986). Children and the Nations. UNICEF New York, printed in
Adelaide.
Black, M. (1996). Children First – The Story of UNICEF, Past and Present. Oxford:
Oxford University Press.
Cornia, G. A., Jolly, R. and F. Stewart (eds). (1987). Adjustment with a Human Face,
Protectingthe Vulnerable and Promoting Growth. Volume I. Oxford: Oxford
University Press.