China
China is the world’s most populous country. After stagnating for two decades under the rigid authoritarianism of early Communist rule, China is now the world’s fastest growing economy.
However, growth and investment are restricted to a limited number of urban areas. The United Nations Development Programme reports that 16.6% of the population continues to live in poverty, on less than US$1 a day. A vast majority of families, particularly in rural areas, have not benefited from economic growth, and development is often further hampered by severe weather conditions. Rural poverty alleviation remains the focus of Plan’s work in China.
Overall child mortality rates have decreased however there can be a wide variation between provinces with up to three-fold differences. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) continues to be a threat to young children and the prevalence of HIV/AIDS is also becoming a concern.
Some of the reasons why Plan works in China
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One in seven children under five years old suffer from stunted growth due to poor nutrition
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Less than 30% of children attend secondary school
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More than 30% of the rural population do not have access to clean drinking water
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More than 70% of the rural population do not have adequate sanitation facilities
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Plan to aid school reconstruction in China
Following the devastating 7.9 magnitude earthquake which struck China in May, Plan has been distributing emergency supplies to affected families and will take part in the reconstruction of schools and the psychological rehabilitation of survivors |
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China's left-behind children
It is estimated that there are more than 19 million ‘left-behind’ children under the age of 15 in China, placed into the care of their extended family while their parents go to find work in the cities |
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Technology helps country children in China
Through an innovative teaching method and access to technology, country children are gaining greater self-esteem and confidence in their ability, and learning invaluable skills for the future |
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Legal aid network for children established
A new network providing legal aid to vulnerable children and young people in China has been successfully launched by Plan. In the first six months of operation, children in 77 cases have received support |
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Life in Chunhua
Plan began working in China in 1997, and now runs 118 community projects. Some of our progress in education, environment and vocational training in the rural area of Chunhua. |
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