Vulnerable groups series III report : the social profile of children aged 7-17 years, 2002-2016

The purpose of the Vulnerable groups series III report : the social profile of children aged 7-17 years, 2002-2016 "is to provide insight into demographic and socio-economic dynamics of children aged 7–17 years in South Africa. The general analysis in the report covers the trends from 2002 to 2016 where data has shown to be consistent over the period. However, where baseline data cannot be reconciled to 2016, different base years from which the variables of interest have been found to be consistent with the most recent data have been used for comparative analysis, for example: 2004, 2006, 2009 and 2010."

It is one of the goals of this report to highlight and strengthen the significance of accepting that children are a unique sub-population group that require and deserve unique policies encouraging their well-being. In many cases, the best interests of the child may not only be in contrast to the interests of his/her family or parents, but may also contest the interest of the aforementioned group (families/parents). Therefore, the endeavour to measure and monitor the state of children in the country is purposeful and is intended to promote not only their well-being, but also influence social, economic and political change processes. The measurement of child indicators must thus raise the child’s prominence in policy processes by accentuating the child as a unit of observation, reflecting his/her voice and perceptions, and enhancing children’s rights."