PURPOSE
The pandemic has resulted in unimaginable sickness and death, and there has been increased vulnerability for families and children, especially girls. Children are facing a range of challenges to their health and safety: school closures, high levels of emotional distress, greater risks of violence, and increased food insecurity. There is also an increase in the number of orphans and in the incidence of other diseases due to the break in vaccination services. Households are hit by loss of income and resulting strains.
The COVID-19 #FaithInAction Initiative reflects the unique and critical roles played by religious leaders and actors in influencing values, attitudes, behaviors and actions that affect the development and wellbeing of the world’s children.
Through the united #FaithInAction Initiative, the partnership will be able to respond to the crisis and provide more coordinated and evidence-based support for the protection and well-being of children and their communities.
OBJECTIVES
The global initiative will promote and support the following seven main actions:
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Manage communication, misinformation and rumors
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Dispel fear, stigma, discrimination, reduce tensions and promote social harmony
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Promote adaptation of religious gatherings, practices, rituals, hand-washing and hygiene
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Address specific needs of vulnerable groups
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Promote the prevention of violence against children and women
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Promote the participation of children and young people and their active engagement in the initiative
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Promote and support the recovery of social services, resilience and return to normalcy
PROGRESS ACHIEVED
OFFICIAL GLOBAL LAUNCH
On 7 April 2020, the partnership launched the global #FaithInAction COVID-19 Initiative as an attempt to raise awareness of safe religious practices and the impacts on the world's youngest citizens during Easter, Ramadan, Passover, Vaisakhi (Vesak), Ridván, and other religious ceremonies during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Please see below the links of the press statements from our partners:
You can read more about the initiative launch here:
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#FaithInAction Initiative Brief | summary information on the #FaithInAction initiative for briefing stakeholders on the background and objectives of the initiative to promote collaboration and mobilize support.
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#FaithInAction Initiative Strategy Overview Presentation | overview of strategies and initiatives
