Towards the realization of socio-economic rights of children in Zimbabwe; a child sensitive policy framework

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ABSTRACT With high incidences of poverty and a depressed economy as well as limited political will, it will be difficult to guarantee the socio-economic rights of children in Zimbabwe. Children struggle to get access to basic services such as health care, basic education, clean water and proper sanitation. This study critically reviews the implementation or lack thereof, of the key socio-economic rights as enunciated in the constitution and child-sensitive policies in Zimbabwe. Through document analysis, the study offers a nuanced examination of social policy implementation in the country. This paper advances the argument that poverty and inequality in Zimbabwe have worsened the lives of children who are subjected to inadequate food, lack access to proper heath facilities and proper shelter among other social amenities. Using a human security framework, the paper foregrounds the need for deliberate policies which respond to the needs of the underprivileged children. The paper concludes that a multifaceted and multi-stakeholder approach will ensure that no child is left behind as envisioned by the agenda of the sustainable development goals. It recommends that the government should implement various policies which guarantee the protection of children in need.