UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is a specialized UN body dedicated to protecting the rights of children globally. Initially focused on providing emergency relief food to children following World War II, UNICEF became a permanent part of the UN in 1953 and expanded its efforts with campaigns to eliminate diseases such as tuberculosis and leprosy. The adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 further shaped its mission, and by 1961 its programs grew to include education while promoting a holistic approach to meeting the needs of children. Today, UNICEF’s main functions include health and nutrition, education, protection, advocacy, and policy, and its initiatives have reached 190 countries and billions of children.
Topic: Strengthening Child Protection and Emergency Response Worldwide
Protecting children during emergencies has become increasingly urgent in the face of wars, natural disasters, and refugee crises. Millions of children are displaced or at risk of recruitment into armed groups, trafficking, or abuse. UNICEF has the responsibility of working with governments to strengthen protective systems that shield children from harm, while also ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches those in urgent need. Delegates will need to address how to coordinate global resources for rapid response, protect children in conflict zones, and ensure continuity of education and healthcare services during crises. The goal is to create frameworks that protect children not only during emergencies but also long after recovery begins.