Thematic Funding

To show clearly how support is used, UNICEF groups funding into three main categories: Core Resources (unrestricted), Thematic Funding (flexible, softly earmarked) and Restricted Funding (fully earmarked).

Thematic Funding, also referred to as Other Resources Thematic, is one of UNICEF’s most effective ways to drive lasting results for children. It is flexible, pooled and multi-year support, softly earmarked for priority areas such as health, education, protection, WASH and humanitarian action. 

This funding model balances flexibility with focus, enabling UNICEF to innovate today while strengthening the systems children rely on – from classrooms and health clinics, to protection services and water networks.  

Unlike tightly earmarked funding, Thematic Funding can be directed strategically to where it will have the greatest impact. This helps align partners’ goals with UNICEF’s mission and enables children and their communities to survive and thrive.  

Thematic Funds are available at different levels:  

• Global: Partners can choose from 11 areas by programme, with resources allocated worldwide where needs are greatest. Read more about the results of the global Thematic Funds in the 2024 Thematic Spotlights Report.
• Regional: Partners can direct support to one of UNICEF’s seven regions for development or humanitarian action.
• Country: Partners can support all programme areas in a country, or target a specific sector (except Mental Health, which is available only globally). 

Through Thematic Funding, partners directly advance UNICEF’s Strategic Plan, helping uphold children’s rights and create opportunities for every child. 

In 2024, partners contributed US$361 million through Thematic Funds. Sweden, Denmark and the United States Fund for UNICEF were the top supporters, helping UNICEF achieve stronger results for children, including those hardest to reach.