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Statistics provide an essential foundation for gauging children's well-being and are vital indicators of the care, nurture and resources that children receive in their communities and countries. We are reminded that more than 12 million children each year continue to die from the 'silent' emergencies of preventable diseases and malnutrition. Statistics such as those on infant and child mortality, immunization, maternal mortality, malnutrition and school enrolment chart the progress countries are making towards the goals set at the World Summit for Children and in overcoming disparities, such as the discrimination against girls and women. Basic indicators on nutrition, health, education, population, economic progress and the situation of women are given. Regional summaries are also provided.