UNICEF Foundation Day is celebrated every year on 11 December.
UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) was established on 11 December 1946 by the United Nations General Assembly.
Why was UNICEF Founded?
After World War II, millions of children across Europe and Asia were suffering from:
- Hunger
- No shelter
- Diseases
- No access to education
To help these affected children, the United Nations created a special fund called UNICEF. Its main purpose was to provide emergency relief—food, clothes, medicines, and protection—to children and mothers.
How UNICEF Evolved
- In 1953, UNICEF became a permanent part of the United Nations.
- Its focus expanded from emergency relief to:
- Child health
- Nutrition
- Clean water
- Education
- Child rights
- Protection from exploitation and violence
UNICEF Today
Today, UNICEF works in 190+ countries, ensuring every child gets:
- Proper healthcare
- Education
- Nutrition
- Protection
- A safe and fair childhood
It continues to be one of the world’s largest organizations dedicated to children’s welfare.