UNICEF stands for every child, everywhere. We are guided by the 1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child, advocating for the protection of children’s rights, helping to meet their basic needs, and giving them a fair chance to reach their full potential.
Undaunted by war, disaster, disease or distance, UNICEF staff work day in and day out to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children with healthcare and vaccines, nutrition, clean water and sanitation, protection, quality education, emergency relief and more.
UNICEF is on the ground before, during and long after humanitarian emergencies, leading international response in water and sanitation, nutrition, education and child protection. Our global supply chain and local presence mean we can rapidly send help, even before it’s needed. As part of the UN family, our ability to work neutrally with governments, the private sector and civil society generates results for children on a scale that is unparalleled. UNICEF even has the influence to pause hostilities in conflict zones – ceasefires known as ‘Days of Tranquility’ – so that children can receive medical care.
Donor support helps reach 45% of the world’s children under age 5 with vaccines, and create long-term solutions that address maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health; child marriage; girls’ access to education; HIV prevention; ending violence against children; child trafficking and exploitation.
For more information about UNICEF, please visit www.unicef.ca.
