Putting Children First for Sustainable Development: The Return on Investment from Aid that Targets Children

We are living in a time of crisis for children globally. And while children make up an average of 46% of the population in poor countries, new World Vision research has shown that donors are only allocating 12% of total global funding (Official Development Assistance or “ODA”) towards girls and boys.

But what do we know about the impact of ODA that is invested in children? While child-related interventions are known to deliver benefits to generations beyond, the ability to quantify the benefits across a range of child focused investments attributable to ODA has been limited.

Until now. This joint Ernst & Young Australia/World Vision economic analysis quantifies the social and economic benefits of these investments. Using a robust analysis of the economic impacts of these investments, our research identified a total Return on Investment of $10 for every $1 invested in children through ODA. Investing $1 is expected to return $10 in benefits through health, education and other relevant direct benefits and additional social value to children and the broader community.

Prioritising ODA investment for children makes sense. Investing in children impacts more than just a single life; it creates lasting improvements to the development and welfare of children, communities, and nations. It offers value for money and is the best way to achieve donor objectives and the Sustainable Development Goals. Investing in children benefits the child today, enables the best future for them and gives the greatest chance of sustainable development for the entire community. See our report and index below.