Abstract:
Child mortality remains a significant global challenge, as numerous countries
have difficulties in meeting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2, which
seeks to reduce child mortality rates by 2030. Previous research has examined
child mortality in SAARC nations, but the impact of macroeconomic factors
remains considerably underexplored. This study addresses this gap by
examining the impact of inflation, labour force participation rate of females,
GDP per capita, and healthcare expenditure on child mortality in SAARC nations
through panel regression analysis of World Bank data from 2000 to 2022. The
findings suggest that GDP per capita and healthcare expenditure have a negative
and significant impact on child mortality, indicating that economic growth and
increased health spending contribute to child survival. The labour force
participation rate of females has a significant positive impact on child mortality,
which implies that maternal employment could be related to challenges in
childcare. Furthermore, inflation has been shown to have a statistically
insignificant negative effect on child mortality. This analysis presents a novel
viewpoint on the impact of macroeconomic factors on child health outcomes,
including evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and health
organisations. By understanding the economic determinants of child mortality,
governments can develop targeted policies and initiatives to enhance child
health and accelerate progress toward SDG 3.2 by 2030. The findings of this
study contribute to the broader discussion on economic resilience and health
equity, underscoring the need for integrated policy strategies to reduce child
mortality in SAARC nations.
