Who was surveyed

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The sample of 11,852 children and adolescents who were interviewed came from across 20 countries in the region and included:

• Children (53% aged between 9-13-years-old) and adolescents (47% 14-18 years-old).
• Both sexes (boys, 51% and girls, 49%).
• Children living in rural (34%) or urban (66%) areas (The proportion of urban to rural population in the sample corresponds to the ratio found in the total population.)

Representatives from all socio-economic groups. But socio-economic status was only considered for urban areas. Rural areas were not stratified because of the highly diverse nature of this population within and across the countries studied.

Other demographic indicators were registered as responses and considered in the analysis of the results but not adjusted according to their "weights." Some of these variables were not only considered individually, they were also combined or "crossed" in different ways to ensure a representative sample for each country.

The race of the respondent was noted, taking into account the mixing of the various races - white/mixed blood (57%), black (11%), indigenous (6%) and unspecified (26%).

Whether children were undertaking paid work (17%) or not (83%).

The future quality of life expectations in the country of residence as a better place to live (37%) or the same or worse place to live (63%).

This information is provided as a contribution to discussion on important issues affecting children. UNICEF Regional offices conducted the polls, analysis and interpretations of the findings. For more information, please contact the regional poll contact person directly.