World Vision Ireland is calling on the Irish Government to put children at the centre of Budget 2027, at a time when global need is rising sharply while international support is in decline. While Ireland has demonstrated leadership in development and humanitarian assistance, the challenges facing children today are intensifying at an unprecedented pace, requiring renewed focus and investment.
The world is at a critical juncture. Hunger, displacement and humanitarian need are increasing, with 239 million people now requiring assistance and 266 million facing acute food insecurity. At the same time, global funding is failing to keep pace, with humanitarian appeals significantly underfunded and Official Development Assistance experiencing its largest recorded decline.
These intersecting pressures are placing enormous strain on vulnerable communities. Climate change continues to disrupt livelihoods and deepen food insecurity, while conflict and economic instability are forcing millions from their homes. For children, these challenges are particularly acute. More than 200 million children now require humanitarian support, and one in five are living in or fleeing conflict.
The consequences are profound. As resources diminish and needs grow, families are increasingly forced into impossible choices, reducing meals, withdrawing children from school, or exposing them to harmful coping mechanisms. Without sustained and targeted investment, an entire generation risks being left behind.
World Vision Ireland Recommendations:
Increase Overseas Development Assistance
Increase Irelandʼs overseas development assistance in Budget 2027 to respond to rising global hunger, climate and humanitarian needs.
Set out a credible pathway towards reaching 0.7% of GNI for Official Development Assistance by 2030.
Strengthen child-focused funding
Strengthen child-focused funding, working towards allocating at least 25% of ODA to programmes supporting children, supported by annual increases.
Prioritise Key Sectors
Prioritise investment in hunger, nutrition, climate resilience and humanitarian response.
Improve Accountability
Improve tracking and accountability mechanisms, including age-disaggregated data, to ensure impact for children.
“There is a shortage of food and money. Children have to take responsibility. This means we cannot go to school.”
Claude*, Burundi
Children are at the centre of today’s global crises, but they must also be at the centre of the response.
Ireland has shown leadership. Budget 2027 is an opportunity to build on that leadership and ensure children are not left behind.
