American Research Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

Climate change is increasingly reshaping the conditions in which children grow, learn, and develop, with the consequences falling most heavily on communities exposed to recurrent environmental hazards. This study examines how climate-related disruptions affect the realization of children’s rights, focusing on interconnected concerns including displacement, food insecurity, health, interrupted education, child labour, and exposure to abuse and exploitation. A mixed-methods research design is employed to develop both a broad assessment of these challenges and a deeper understanding of children’s lived experiences. Quantitative information is used to identify patterns and relationships across vulnerable communities, while qualitative evidence gathered through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions provides insight into the everyday difficulties faced by children and their families. The findings indicate that climate-related pressures can intensify existing social and economic inequalities and expose weaknesses in child protection systems. Important gaps are also observed between policy commitments and their implementation at the community level. The study therefore emphasizes the need to place children at the centre of climate adaptation and disaster-risk policies. Strengthening community preparedness, protecting access to education and essential health services, improving social protection, and expanding child-sensitive resilience programmes are identified as important priorities. Greater investment in sustainable and clean energy, together with stronger mitigation measures, is also necessary to reduce longer-term climate risks. Overall, the study argues that climate action should extend beyond environmental protection to include the preservation of children’s rights, dignity, safety, and opportunities for healthy development.

Keywords: Climate Change; Child Rights; Climate Vulnerability; Displacement; Food Insecurity; Education; Child Protection; Community Resilience; Policy Gaps.