The data reveal definite positive advances in children’s well-being such as Tuvalu achieving its Sustainable Development Goals target on child mortality. However, the progress has been uneven across wealth income groups, and the poorest households have fallen further behind in many areas. The first Tuvalu 2019-2020 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) data will inform the government's decision-making uncovering the most critical areas where children and households need additional support. The survey provides insights into health, nutrition, child protection, education, water, sanitation, hygiene and domestic violence.
Tuvalu’s Minister of Finance, Hon. Seve Paeniu, who joined the MICS results launch event, highly commended the survey findings report to all ministries and departments as well as other key stakeholders. The Minister said, “I encourage that you make use of the data and findings to inform the design of your response and policies to address the socio-economic issues under your agency’s areas of coverage.” UNICEF Pacific Representative, Mr. Jonathan Veitch, congratulated the Government of Tuvalu on achieving a major milestone with this MICS report. “UNICEF, together with our partners, will continue to stand ready to further support the Government in using these vital data to strengthen the country’s progress towards promoting the welfare of all women and children”, he said.
The launch of the MICS findings report is very timely as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause economic and social disruptions in all Pacific Island countries. The newly released data will play a crucial role in strengthening preparedness and response strategies to support the country during this global crisis.
The Tuvalu 2019-2020 MICS was led by the Tuvalu Central Statistics Division in collaboration with other government ministries. Technical support was provided by UNICEF, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Pacific Community (SPC), with government funding and financial support from UNICEF and UNFPA.
Access the survey findings here.
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