For 75 years, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has been working tirelessly for child rights and for the well-being of every child. Whoever they are. Wherever they live.
Since UNICEF was established, in the aftermath of World War II, we have been at the frontlines of humanitarian crises, armed conflict and natural disasters. Undeterred by the scale of the crises, we rise to the challenge, reimagine what is possible and respond by helping millions of children survive and thrive. Our on-the-ground expertise has reached more than 191 countries and territories, through committed partnerships and a passion for innovation.
The past: From loud emergencies to invisible ones
When the world’s most vulnerable children have needed a champion, UNICEF has been there.
From short-term relief during armed conflict, natural disasters and humanitarian crises to long-term survival and development programmes, we have helped build resilient health and welfare systems across the globe. We have defeated diseases, provided essential services, education and skills and developed healthier and safer environments for children and their families everywhere.
The present: A child rights crisis is upon us
Today, the world is again facing multiple crises — the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, widespread social and economic challenges and rising poverty and inequality. These challenges impact us all, but they hit the most vulnerable children the hardest.
COVID-19 has put a sobering spotlight on inequalities in every country, laying bare the increasing risk to children growing up in poverty, exclusion or conflict. Without urgent coordinated global action, the futures of an entire generation of children could be at risk.
The future: Reimagining the world for every child
With disruption comes opportunity. Just as we rebuilt from the ruins of World War II, our goal today remains ensuring global recovery by prioritizing investments for children. To do so, we bring 75 years of experience to the following priority areas:
Vaccines for all
One of our biggest contributions to children’s lives has been keeping them safe from deadly diseases. Our global immunization efforts have helped millions of children survive and grow up healthier, happier and stronger.
As COVID-19 vaccine distribution continues through the COVAX facility we remain committed to our partnerships with governments and the private sector to ensure vaccines reach everyone, including the most marginalized and excluded.
Learning for all
UNICEF’s Reimagine Education initiative is revolutionizing learning and skills development to provide quality education for every child through digital learning, internet connectivity, devices, affordable data and the engagement of young people.
Investment in mental health
Half of all mental disorders develop before the age of 15, and 75 per cent by early adulthood. We are calling on investment and action to support and protect the mental health of children and young people, and to bring an end to neglect, abuse and childhood trauma that drives poor life outcomes.
Addressing the climate crisis
Climate change will not wait. In a world where 17 countries are overdrawing on their water supply each year, we need to reimagine a water-secure world for children. By taking bold action now we can tackle climate change, protect our environment and build a better world for our children and future generations.
