United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF)

United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF)

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- Global groupings

In News: 

• The UNICEF recently appealed to the governments worldwide to not to ignore life-saving health interventions such as immunisation in their efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Key takeaways:

• The children from the poorest families in countries affected by conflicts and natural disasters will be at the greatest risk.
• It is also feared that critical life-saving services, including immunisation may be disrupted, especially in Africa, Asia and the Middle East where they are essentially needed. 
• The UNICEF also announced that it would increase support to all countries so that children continue their learning despite schools being shut. 

• Initial sum of $9 million had already been allocated to help governments and education partners develop plans for alternative learning programmes and ensure access to remote learning. 

Important value additions:

United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF)

• It is a United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide.
• It is among the most widespread and recognizable social welfare organizations in the world.
• UNICEF’s activities include:

• • Immunizations and disease prevention
  • Administering treatment for children and mothers with HIV
  • Enhancing childhood and maternal nutrition
  • Improving sanitation
  • Promoting education
  • Providing emergency relief in response to disasters

• UNICEF relies entirely on contributions from governments and private donors.
• Its Headquarter is in New York City, US.