The United Nations children's agency says hundreds of millions of children around the world are suffering from abuse and neglect and have become virtually invisible.
In its annual report on the State of the World's Children, UNICEF says more than 50 million births each year are unregistered, denying those children access to basic services. It says orphans, street children and children in detention are often not treated as children. The report also notes that millions of children are caught up in armed conflicts, are victims of trafficking or domestic servitude.
The agency says that without focused attention, millions of children and their nations will suffer devastating consequences.
UNICEF says the world must go beyond its current efforts to ensure the well being of these children. It also called on countries to change their laws to match international commitments to children.