78th UNICEF Foundation Day: UNICEF Foundation Day is the annual commemoration of the founding of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) in 1946.
It focuses on pressing issues affecting children such as health, education and protection, aligning with its broader mission to uphold the rights and well-being of every child.
As UNICEF celebrates its 78th anniversary, here’s what you need to know.
UNICEF Foundation Day 2024: Date and History
On December 11, 1946, the United Nations General Assembly and Ludwik Rajchman established UNICEF to address the needs of children in nations affected by World War II and to provide emergency aid to war-affected children and mothers.
UNICEF’s mandate was expanded in the 1950s to address the long-term needs of children and women in developing nations, initially focusing on providing food and health care in post-war Europe and China.
In 1953, it became a permanent member of the United Nations system, maintaining the objective of fighting for the protection of children’s rights, to help meet their basic needs, and to expand their opportunities to achieve their full potential.
UNICEF Foundation Day 2024: Significance
UNICEF Foundation Day is celebrated to highlight UNICEF’s work to promote child health, nutrition, education, and protection from exploitation and violence, as well as to commemorate the organization’s continued dedication to the well-being of children.
The day emphasizes the importance of global collaboration to address children’s hardships, campaign for equal opportunities, and ensure poor children have access to vital services.