UNICEF

The UNICEF flag displays the organization's emblem, typically in white on a blue background. The emblem shows an adult figure holding or protecting a child, framed by elements associated with the United Nations emblem, including olive branches and a globe. Its central image emphasizes care, protection and the wellbeing of children everywhere. The blue-and-white design links UNICEF to the wider UN family, while the human figures make the organization's child-focused mission immediately recognizable. The flag represents UNICEF's commitment to children's rights, health, education and survival, especially where children face poverty, conflict or emergencies.

UNICEF was established by the United Nations General Assembly on 11 December 1946 as the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund. Its initial task was to provide emergency food, healthcare and other assistance to children affected by the Second World War. As the needs of children extended far beyond post-war Europe, UNICEF's work expanded into long-term programmes addressing child health, nutrition, education and development. In 1953, UNICEF became a permanent part of the United Nations system and its official name changed to the United Nations Children's Fund, although the familiar acronym UNICEF was retained. UNICEF later played a major role in global vaccination and child-survival initiatives. The adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989 provided an important international framework for the rights UNICEF works to advance. Today, UNICEF combines long-term development work with rapid humanitarian responses to disasters, displacement and armed conflict.

• UNICEF was created by the UN General Assembly on 11 December 1946.
• Its original name was United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund.
• UNICEF became a permanent part of the UN system in 1953.
• The acronym UNICEF remained in use after its name changed to United Nations Children's Fund.
• UNICEF's headquarters are in New York City, United States.
• UNICEF works to advance the rights and wellbeing of children worldwide.
• Its activities include immunization, nutrition, education, water, sanitation and hygiene.
• UNICEF supports children and families during humanitarian emergencies.
• UNICEF received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965.

Key Facts
• Established: 1946
• Headquarters: New York City, United States
• Organization type: United Nations fund
• Main focus: Children's rights, survival, protection and development

UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, works to protect children's rights and help every child survive, learn and thrive. Its programmes support maternal and child health, vaccinations, adequate nutrition, safe drinking water, sanitation, quality education and protection from violence, exploitation and discrimination. UNICEF also provides emergency supplies and services when children are affected by wars, natural disasters and other crises. Alongside its field programmes, it works with governments and partners to improve policies and public services for children. The Convention on the Rights of the Child is central to its rights-based approach. UNICEF's mission covers both immediate humanitarian needs and longer-term improvements to children's lives, with particular attention to those facing the greatest disadvantages.