The Netherlands has fallen again in the international KidsRights Index, dropping to 22nd place globally and outside the top 20 for the second consecutive year. This marks a significant decline from four years ago when the country ranked within the top 10. The index, compiled annually by KidsRights in collaboration with Erasmus University Rotterdam since 2013, assesses countries based on five fundamental rights: the right to life, health, education, protection, and a favorable climate for children’s rights. This year’s drop is attributed to a continued rise in childhood obesity and an increase in infant mortality rates. The Netherlands’ infant mortality rate, now at 3.96 per 1,000 live births, exceeds the West European average of 3.3. Disparities in infant mortality are particularly pronounced in poorer neighborhoods and among vulnerable women, including asylum seekers. KidsRights reports insufficient progress in addressing various child rights issues overall.