New insights from our Fragile Futures report reveal a stark truth: child mortality may be significantly underestimated this century. We explore why current UN projections fall short, how lives are already impacted and what urgently needs to change to protect children and global health progress.

In April, we presented Fragile Futures at CPD58 in New York, urging action as projected child deaths this century may exceed projections. Encouragingly, governments recognised that climate change and conflict are straining health systems and more investment is essential.

Sir David Attenborough—one of the strongest voices for nature and a proud Population Matters patron—has warned of the damage caused by industrial fishing. His powerful new film, to be aired on his 99th birthday, calls for urgent action to protect our oceans from destructive practices.

Over 50 countries, cities and organisations have pledged to halve the health impacts of air pollution by 2040. This timely commitment came just before we arrived in New York last month, where we shared our Fragile Futures research linking climate and environmental harm to rising infant mortality.

In February, we joined dozens of organisations in urging the UK government to rethink its foreign aid cuts. New analysis shows 55 million people could lose vital support, with devastating consequences for maternal health, family planning and the rights of women and girls.

A UN study reveals how climate change is fuelling gender-based violence, with displacement, food insecurity and instability all key drivers. “Ending violence against women and girls... is essential to achieving a just, sustainable, and climate-resilient future.”

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