The media attention surrounding Madonna's recent adoption of a Malawian child could help highlight the plight of millions of poverty-afflicted communities, despite the fact that one single adoption does little to promote real change.

"Recognising that there are children and communities in need, who struggle to survive the devastating effects of extreme poverty, is an important step, and celebrities are able to use their profile to raise awareness." said Nigel Spence, child welfare specialist and CEO of ChildFund Australia.

"However, the adoption of children does little to help families break the cycle of poverty that sees millions of children die each year. Rather than a singular adoption, investing in the development of communities as a whole has a far greater impact on eradicating poverty."

According to recent media reports, one year-old David Banda, the Malawian baby adopted by Madonna, lost his mother during childbirth. His father, a subsistence farmer, has since been unable to support the child.

"The vast majority of international development organisations, and Australian social service agencies, believe that wherever possible families should be supported so that they can remain together. Family, community and cultural connections are crucial for children's development.

"It is important to remember that Madonna has not adopted an orphan, but a child whose family are extremely impoverished and therefore unable to support him. A life of wealth will not necessarily compensate David for the loss of his homeland and family members."

Individuals who wish to improve conditions for children in the developing world can make a real difference by supporting international aid agencies that work in partnership with communities to achieve long-term benefits for children.

Nigel said: "Ultimately, we want to ensure that children and their families have a positive future. Hopefully, there will come a day where no parent is forced to give up their child for adoption."

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