By Samira Larbie
Accra, May 15, GNA – The Family Based Care Alliance (FaBCA) has called for urgent and coordinated action to address growing inequalities affecting children and families in Ghana, as the world marks the 2026 International Day of Families.
This year’s observance, on May 15 is on the theme: “Families, Inequalities and Child Well-being.”
In a statement issued and copied to the Ghana News Agency on Friday, said millions of children continued to face barriers to survival, development, education, protection and emotional well-being due to widening inequalities in income, healthcare, education, digital access and social protection systems.
It said behind every child’s development was a strong and supportive family structure, adding that economic hardship, rising unemployment, inflation and limited access to social services were placing enormous pressure on vulnerable families across the country.
“Every child deserves more than mere survival; every child is entitled to dignity, opportunity, safety, and the love and devotion of a family,” the statement said.
FaBCA noted that many parents and caregivers struggled daily to provide basic needs such as nutritious food, healthcare and quality education for their children, while underserved communities remained disconnected from critical services necessary for healthy child development.
According to the Alliance, the situation had increased children’s vulnerability to neglect, exploitation, child labour, trafficking, unsafe migration, abuse and unnecessary separation from their families.
FaBCA therefore urged government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations, faith-based groups, traditional authorities, the private sector and local communities to intensify investments in policies and interventions that strengthen families and protect children.
The Alliance called for the expansion of social protection and economic empowerment programmes targeting vulnerable households, equitable access to quality healthcare and education, improved digital inclusion for underserved communities, and stronger mental health and psychosocial support systems for children and caregivers.
It also advocated increased investment in community-based child protection systems and family-based alternative care services to prevent unnecessary family separation.
The statement appealed for inclusive interventions for children living with disabilities and marginalised families to ensure that no child was left behind in national development efforts.
FaBCA maintained that strong families remained the first line of protection for every child, adding that children were more likely to thrive emotionally, socially, physically and academically when families received adequate support.
“This International Day of Families should transcend mere observance and become a resounding call to action to confront the inequalities that deprive millions of children of their right to care, protection and belonging,” the statement added.
FaBCA is an alliance dedicated to promoting family-based care and strengthening child protection systems in Ghana.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
Reporter:Samira Larbie