UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Shakira is amplifying the call for global leaders to prioritize early childhood development, emphasizing the urgent need for investment in light of groundbreaking scientific discoveries. With over 100 million children out of school and millions more facing stunted physical and cognitive growth due to inadequate care and nutrition, Shakira stresses that the time to act is now.

Drawing attention to the pivotal role of early brain development, Shakira underscores that nearly 1,000 neural connections are formed every second during early childhood, laying the foundation for lifelong learning, resilience, and overall well-being. However, a significant portion of children in lower and middle income countries are growing up in environments that hinder this crucial developmental phase, perpetuating cycles of poverty and limited opportunity.

Recent research reveals the profound impact of environmental factors on young children’s brain development, highlighting the importance of interventions such as breastfeeding, interactive caregiving, and early education programs. Shakira emphasizes that these cost-effective measures can mitigate the negative effects of poverty, violence, and crises on children’s development, ultimately shaping their future and that of generations to come.

Joined by global leaders and experts in a private event at the UN, Shakira advocates for integrating early childhood development into the new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), recognizing its transformative potential across various domains, from poverty reduction to gender equality. As the world prepares to embrace the SDGs, Shakira urges concerted action to translate scientific knowledge into tangible initiatives that prioritize the well-being of all children, regardless of their circumstances.