Introduction

One place where the world's nations can

gather together, discuss common problems
and find shared solutions.

The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. Currently

made up of 193 Member States, the UN and its work are guided by the purposes
and principles contained in its founding Charter.
The UN has evolved over the years to keep pace with a rapidly changing world.
But one thing has stayed the same: it remains the one place on Earth where all
the world’s nations can gather together, discuss common problems, and find
shared solutions that benefit all of humanity. Now, more than 75 years later, the
United Nations is still working to maintain international peace and security, give
humanitarian assistance to those in need, protect human rights, and
uphold international law.
At the same time, the United Nations is doing new work not envisioned for it in
1945 by its founders. The United Nations has set sustainable development
goals for 2030, in order to achieve a better and more sustainable future for us
all. UN Member States have also agreed to climate action to limit global
warming.
With many achievements now in its past, the United Nations is looking to the
future, to new achievements.
The history of the United Nations is still being written.
UN Emblem and Flag(pic)
Pg 2
United Nations specialized agencies
Specialised agencies are autonomous organizations working with
the United Nations and each other through the structure of the United
Nations Economic and Social Council at the intergovernmental level,
and through the Chief Executives Board for Coordination (CEB) at the
intersecretariat level.[1][2][3]
One of the principal objectives of the UN is to solve economic, social,
cultural and humanitarian issues through international cooperation.
Several specialized agencies have been set up to achieve these goals,
agencies which may or may not have been created by the UN, but were
incorporated into the United Nations System by the United Nations
Economic and Social Council acting under Articles 57 and 63 of
the United Nations Charter. At present, the U.N. has in total 15[4][5][note
1]
specialized agencies that carry out various functions on behalf of the
UN. The few specialized agencies are listed below.[9][10]
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
. International Labour Organization (ILO)

International Maritime Organization (IMO)

International Monetary Fund (IMF)
International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)
Universal Postal Union (UPU)
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)

Roles of Specialized Agencies of the UN:

1. Promoting International Cooperation:
o They facilitate cooperation among countries on issues like health,
education, agriculture, labor, and communication.
2. Providing Expertise and Research:
o Agencies conduct research and offer technical expertise to help
countries develop effective policies and strategies (e.g., WHO
during disease outbreaks).
3. Setting International Standards:
o Agencies develop global standards in areas like health (WHO), labor
rights (ILO), intellectual property (WIPO), and aviation (ICAO).
4. Providing Development Assistance:
o They offer financial and technical support for development projects
in less developed countries (e.g., IFAD for rural development,
UNESCO for education and culture).
5. Monitoring and Reporting:
o They collect data, monitor progress, and report on global issues
such as food security, education levels, or economic trends (e.g.,
IMF, FAO).
6. Humanitarian and Emergency Aid:
o Agencies like WFP (World Food Programme) and WHO provide
emergency aid during natural disasters, famines, or pandemics.
7. Supporting International Law and Rights:
 o They promote and protect human rights and legal standards, such
as through ILO (labor rights) or UNESCO (cultural rights)

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)

UNICEF is a United Nations institution that offers developmental & humanitarian
assistance to children around the world.
UNICEF is a United Nations agency responsible for promoting and protecting the
rights of children worldwide. United Nations International Children’s Emergency
Fund (UNICEF) was established in 1946 to provide emergency food and
healthcare to children in countries that were devastated by World War II.
Today, UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories, assisting children and
their families in areas such as health and nutrition, education, child protection,
water, sanitation, and hygiene. UNICEF also advocates for children’s rights and
promotes policies and programs that improve the well-being of children,
especially those who are marginalized or disadvantaged.
UNICEF was originally known as the United Nations International Children’s
Emergency Fund. The United Nations General Assembly created UNICEF on
December 11, 1946. The organization’s original mission was to provide
emergency food and healthcare to children and mothers in countries affected by
World War II. In 1953, UNICEF changed its name to reflect its broader mission but
kept the original abbreviation. UNICEF is a United Nations agency that provides
humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide.

History of United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund

The United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration established UNICEF
in 1946 as the International Children’s Emergency Fund (ICEF) to assist children
affected by World War II. In 1953, UNICEF was admitted as a permanent member
of the United Nations. The name was shortened to United Nations Children Fund,
although the organisation is still known as UNICEF.
The United Nations General Assembly has mandated it to advocate for the
preservation of children’s rights, to assist in meeting their basic requirements,
and to increase their opportunity to attain their full potential.
UNICEF is guided by the 1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child.
UNICEF Foundation
UNICEF operates as a foundation within the United Nations system, relying on
voluntary contributions from governments, individuals, and private sectors to
fund its activities and projects. UNICEF was created to provide emergency food
and healthcare to children and mothers in countries affected by World War II.
After 1950, UNICEF began to focus on general programs to improve children’s
welfare. These programs focused on less-developed countries and emergencies.
UNICEF Headquarters
The headquarters of UNICEF is in New York City, United States. The UNICEF
headquarters acts as the organization’s worldwide operations hub, including
programme development, fundraising, and collaboration with partners and
stakeholders. It also houses several departments such as communications,
finance, human resources, and information technology. In addition, the facility
houses a public visitor centre with displays about UNICEF’s work and the
difficulties children face worldwide.
UNICEF Establishment
The United Nations General Assembly established UNICEF (United Nations
Children’s Fund) on December 11, 1946, to give emergency food, healthcare, and
other aid to children in war-torn countries. The organization’s early concentration
was on giving urgent help to children in Europe, but it swiftly expanded its
operations to other parts of the world.

UNICEF’s mandate has extended throughout time to encompass long-term

development projects aimed at increasing children’s well-being and promoting
their rights. Today, UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, with a
particular emphasis on the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children, such as
those afflicted by poverty, violence, and prejudice.

Functions of UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has many functions:
Providing immunizations and disease prevention
Treating children and mothers with HIV
Improving childhood and maternal nutrition
Promoting education
Providing emergency relief in response to disasters
Supporting child health and nutrition
Safe water and sanitation
Quality education and skill-building
Protecting children and adolescents from violence and exploitation
Providing protection and rehabilitation to child refugees
Creating safe and inclusive environments for children with disabilities
Providing long-term assistance to children at risk during natural, public health
and political emergencies
Supplies papers to publish textbooks and literature to facilitate learning among
children
Provides training and funds to health and sanitisation workers

The functions and Objectives of UNICEF ( United Nations International Children’s

Emergency Fund.) encompass UNICEF’s dedication to serving the most
vulnerable children and adolescents globally while upholding their rights.
Operating across 190 countries and territories, UNICEF endeavors to ensure
children’s survival, development, and empowerment from infancy through
adolescence.
As the world’s largest provider of vaccines, UNICEF prioritizes child health and
nutrition, access to clean water and sanitation, quality education, and skills
development. Additionally, UNICEF extends its support to HIV prevention and
treatment for mothers and infants and works tirelessly to protect children and
adolescents from violence and exploitation.
During humanitarian crises, UNICEF remains actively engaged, delivering life-
saving assistance and hope to affected children and families. Upholding a non-
political and impartial stance, UNICEF stands firm in advocating for children’s
rights and securing their well-being and future prospects.
The Main Functions and Objectives of UNICEF
The main functions and objectives of UNICEF, shedding light on its critical role in
shaping the future of children worldwide.
Functions of UNICEF
1. Child Health and Nutrition:
UNICEF prioritizes child health and nutrition, aiming to reduce child mortality
rates and ensure proper nourishment for all children. Through vaccination
campaigns, nutrition programs, and maternal healthcare initiatives, UNICEF
works to combat diseases and malnutrition, laying the foundation for healthy
development.
2. Access to Clean Water and Sanitation
Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation facilities is paramount to UNICEF’s
mission. By implementing water and sanitation projects in communities
worldwide, UNICEF strives to prevent waterborne diseases, improve hygiene
practices, and enhance overall well-being.
3. Quality Education and Skills Development
UNICEF advocates for quality education as a fundamental right for every child.
Through educational programs, teacher training initiatives, and school
infrastructure projects, UNICEF seeks to provide children with the knowledge,
skills, and opportunities they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
4. HIV Prevention and Treatment
UNICEF is deeply involved in HIV prevention and treatment efforts, particularly
for mothers and infants. By promoting HIV testing, counseling, and antiretroviral
therapy, UNICEF aims to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV and support
those affected by the virus with comprehensive care and support services.
5. Protection of Children and Adolescents
Protecting children from violence, exploitation, and abuse is a core function of
UNICEF. Through advocacy, policy development, and community-based
interventions, UNICEF works to safeguard children’s rights, ensure their safety,
and provide them with the necessary support and protection.
6. Emergency Response and Humanitarian Assistance
UNICEF plays a crucial role in emergency response and humanitarian assistance,
providing lifesaving aid to children and families affected by conflicts, natural
disasters, and other crises. Through rapid deployment of supplies, provision of
emergency healthcare services, and establishment of safe spaces for children,
UNICEF ensures that the most vulnerable populations receive immediate
assistance and support during times of crisis.
7. Child Protection and Advocacy
In addition to protecting children from violence and exploitation, UNICEF
advocates for the implementation of laws, policies, and programs that uphold
children’s rights and promote their well-being. Through research, lobbying, and
public awareness campaigns, UNICEF raises awareness about issues such as
child trafficking, child labor, and child marriage, advocating for systemic changes
to protect children’s rights and ensure their safety.
8. Child Participation and Empowerment
UNICEF believes in the importance of empowering children to actively participate
in decisions that affect their lives. Through youth engagement initiatives,
leadership development programs, and child-led advocacy campaigns, UNICEF
encourages children to voice their opinions, contribute to community
development, and become agents of change in their own right.
9. Social Protection and Welfare Services
UNICEF supports the establishment of social protection systems that provide
vulnerable families with access to essential services, including healthcare,
education, and social assistance. By advocating for policies that prioritize the
needs of children and families living in poverty, UNICEF helps to reduce
inequality, improve social inclusion, and enhance overall well-being.
10. Research and Data Analysis
UNICEF conducts research and data analysis to generate evidence-based insights
into the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing children and adolescents
worldwide. By collecting and analyzing data on key indicators such as child
mortality, nutrition, and education, UNICEF informs policy decisions, program
planning, and resource allocation, ensuring that interventions are targeted and
effective.
Objectives of UNICEF
1. Child Survival
UNICEF’s primary objective is to ensure the survival of children, particularly
those living in the most challenging circumstances. By providing access to
essential healthcare services, nutritional support, and emergency assistance,
UNICEF strives to reduce child mortality rates and improve overall well-being.
2. Child Development
UNICEF is committed to promoting holistic child development, encompassing
physical, cognitive, emotional, and social aspects. Through early childhood
development programs, educational initiatives, and psychosocial support
services, UNICEF aims to nurture children’s growth and unlock their full potential.
3. Child Protection
Protecting children from harm, exploitation, and abuse is a fundamental objective
of UNICEF. By advocating for children’s rights, strengthening child protection
systems, and providing legal assistance and psychosocial support to victims,
UNICEF works to create safe and supportive environments for children to thrive.
4. Equity and Inclusion
UNICEF is dedicated to promoting equity and inclusion, ensuring that every child,
regardless of their background or circumstances, has equal access to
opportunities and resources. By addressing disparities and discrimination,
advocating for marginalized groups, and promoting social inclusion, UNICEF
strives to build a more just and equitable world for children.
5. Global Partnerships
UNICEF recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving
its objectives. By forging alliances with governments, civil society organizations,
the private sector, and other stakeholders, UNICEF leverages collective expertise
and resources to maximize its impact and reach more children in need.
6. Child Rights Monitoring and Reporting
UNICEF monitors and reports on the implementation of international conventions
and treaties related to children’s rights, including the Convention on the Rights of
the Child. By assessing progress, identifying gaps, and advocating for
accountability, UNICEF works to ensure that governments fulfill their obligations
to protect and promote children’s rights.
7. Capacity Building and Training
UNICEF provides capacity-building support and training to governments, civil
society organizations, and other partners to strengthen their ability to deliver
essential services and support to children and families. By building local capacity
and expertise, UNICEF enhances the sustainability and effectiveness of
interventions, ensuring long-term impact and positive change.
8. Child-Friendly Communities and Environments
UNICEF promotes the creation of child-friendly communities and environments
that prioritize the needs, rights, and well-being of children. Through urban
planning, infrastructure development, and community engagement initiatives,
UNICEF fosters inclusive spaces where children can play, learn, and grow in
safety and dignity.
9. Gender Equality and Girls’ Empowerment
UNICEF works to advance gender equality and empower girls by addressing
discriminatory practices, promoting girls’ education and participation, and
supporting initiatives that challenge harmful gender norms and stereotypes. By
promoting girls’ rights and opportunities, UNICEF contributes to building a more
equitable and inclusive society for all children.
10. Advocacy for Child-Friendly Policies and Legislation
UNICEF advocates for the adoption and implementation of child-friendly policies
and legislation at the national and international levels. By working with
governments, policymakers, and other stakeholders, UNICEF seeks to ensure that
laws, regulations, and programs prioritize children’s rights, needs, and interests,
leading to positive outcomes for children and adolescents worldwide.
Protecting Gaza’s children from polio

In Gaza, baby Alaa’s is held by her sibling after getting vaccinated against polio.
"Vaccinating my daughter was a relief after so much struggle,” says Alaa’s
mother, Anwar. “I am grateful to UNICEF for providing vaccines for children.”
With the support of our donors and partners, UNICEF delivered a critical polio
vaccination campaign in Gaza, reaching more than half a million children under
the age of 10. The paralyzing disease surfaced in July after 25 years.
Despite challenges including limited humanitarian pauses and access
restrictions, health workers were able achieve 94% coverage.
The polio campaign not only helped protect the children from the deadly disease;
it also highlighted the resilience of health workers who delivered on their promise
through mounting difficulties.
Ensuring children continue learning in Afghanistan

In Afghanistan, nine-year-old Khadija reads from a textbook in her community-

based education classroom.
More than half of all children in Afghanistan do not attend primary school. Thanks
to donor support, UNICEF has established new community-based education (CBE)
classrooms in remote villages across Afghanistan, where children can have a safe
space to learn and play with other children.
In 2024, UNICEF supported both public and community-based education (CBE)
for grade 1 to 6 and reached 2.7 million children. Nearly 18,000 community-
based education (CBE) classes across the country are UNICEF-supported,
reaching more than 564,000 boys and girls.
Providing relief during emergencies
UNICEF staff and partners distribute over 300 dignity kits to displaced
families from Al Jazirah, in 6 Arab gathering site, Kassala state.

Children caught in emergencies faced incredible challenges to their rights and

survival in 2024. With generous support from donors across Canada, UNICEF
delivered for children in emergencies, providing essential health, nutrition,
education, and water and sanitation services.
In just the first half of 2024, UNICEF provided these supports during emergency
response:
 Primary healthcare for more than 26 million children and women;
 Safe drinking water for over 17 million people;
 Access to education services for nearly 10 million children;
 Screening of wasting (severe malnutrition) for more than 12 million
children.
Youth advocates at the UNICEF Canada’s Youth Advocacy Summit in Ottawa
during National Child Day.

UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund) faces several challenges in its

mission to protect the rights and well-being of children worldwide. These
challenges stem from political, economic, environmental, and social factors.
Key Challenges Faced by UNICEF:
1. Armed Conflicts and Political Instability:
o Ongoing wars and conflicts (e.g., in Syria, Yemen, Sudan) hinder
UNICEF's ability to deliver aid.
o Children are displaced, recruited as child soldiers, or exposed to
trauma and violence.
2. Funding Constraints:
o UNICEF relies on voluntary contributions from governments and
donors.
o Sudden emergencies (natural disasters or pandemics) often strain
its limited budget.
3. Natural Disasters and Climate Change:
o Increased frequency of floods, droughts, and hurricanes affects
children's access to clean water, food, education, and shelter.
o Climate change creates long-term risks to child health and safety.

4. Health Crises and Pandemics:

o Health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic disrupt routine
immunization, education, and nutrition programs.
o Limited healthcare infrastructure in many countries complicates
response efforts.
5. Poverty and Inequality:
o Millions of children live in extreme poverty, lacking basic services
like education, nutrition, and clean water.
o Inequality between urban and rural areas, and among social groups,
makes service delivery uneven.
6. Access and Security Issues:
o In some regions, especially conflict zones, humanitarian workers
face security threats and restricted access.
o Bureaucratic barriers and hostility from local authorities can block
UNICEF operations.
7. Malnutrition and Food Insecurity:
o Persistent hunger and malnutrition affect children's physical and
cognitive development.
o Food crises in regions like the Horn of Africa and Sahel severely
challenge UNICEF's resources.
8. Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination:
o Girls often face early marriage, lack of education, and violence,
particularly in conservative or unstable societies.
o UNICEF must navigate cultural sensitivity while promoting child and
gender rights.
9. Misinformation and Resistance:
o Vaccine hesitancy and misinformation (especially on social media)
can reduce trust in UNICEF health initiatives.
o Resistance to girls' education or child protection policies can hinder
progress.
10.Migration and Displacement:
 Refugee and migrant children are at high risk of exploitation, trafficking,
and abuse.
  UNICEF struggles to provide consistent services to displaced populations
across borders.
How Students Can Contribute
Students can play an active role in supporting the work of these agencies
through:
1. Awareness Campaigns:
o Organize or join school clubs focused on global issues.

o Use social media to spread information about UN goals (like the

SDGs).
o Conduct workshops or presentations on global challenges and
solutions.
2. Volunteering:
o Participate in local or online volunteer programs related to UN
causes.
o Join youth programs like UNICEF Youth Advocates or Model
United Nations.
o Collaborate with NGOs working on education, climate action, or
health awareness.
3. Fundraising and Donations:
o Organize charity drives or events to support causes like disaster
relief or children’s education.
o Partner with local businesses or schools for donations to UN-
supported initiatives.
4. Education and Advocacy:
o Learn about the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and
share knowledge.
o Write articles, blogs, or create videos to educate peers.

Conclusion
In conclusion, UNICEF’s main functions and objectives reflect its unwavering
commitment to the well-being, rights, and development of children worldwide.
Through its diverse range of programs, initiatives, and partnerships, UNICEF
continues to be a driving force for positive change, striving to create a world
where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential.
Despite 2024’s challenges – from conflicts to crises to climate disasters – UNICEF
continued to deliver for children in urgent need. We’ve collected four stories to
show the impact that you, our supporters, have helped make on the lives of
children around the world this year. Stories where we all collectively came
together to create a better world for every child.