UNICEF Executive Board session concludes with an emphasis on collaboration
NEW YORK, USA, 10 February 2012 – The UNICEF Executive Board closed its first regular session of 2012 today with an emphasis on strengthening partnerships and pursuing innovations to accelerate progress toward the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
In Guatemala, a child's abduction and death inspires stronger child protection laws
JALAPA, Guatemala, 10 February 2012 – On 16 December 2009, Guillermo López and his wife Maribel Agustín’s lives were changed forever. Their 4-year-old son, Keneth, went missing.
UNICEF members pledge core resources to fund innovative approaches to reach the most vulnerable
NEW YORK, USA, 9 February 2012 – The global economic crisis continued to be felt at the UNICEF Executive Board’s annual pledging event, held at United Nations Headquarters in New York.
UNICEF Executive Board opens with highlight on innovation
NEW YORK, USA, 7 February 2012 – The UNICEF Executive Board opened its first regular session of the year at United Nations Headquarters in New York, with an emphasis on the role of innovation in strengthening UNICEF’s ability to carry out its work under tight financial constraints.
In Turkey, a conference gives children a voice in the drafting of new constitution
ANKARA, Turkey, 2 February, 2012 – Turkey is at pivotal point in its history. Parliamentarians are poised to make fundamental changes to the country’s constitution, and children will have a rare chance to leave their stamp on it.
With cash transfers, UNICEF and partners aid drought-affected families in Niger
GAWOUNAWA, Niger, 27 January 2012 – At the end of the farming season, Halima Isaka sat with her 10-month-old daughter at the edge of their family’s field, watching as her husband loaded a pile of dried millet stalks onto an oxcart.
‘Humanitarian Action for Children 2012’ calls for continued focus on the Horn of Africa
NEW YORK, 26 January 2012 – The ongoing crisis in the Horn of Africa will remain a significant part of UNICEF’s global humanitarian response in the coming year, according to the ‘Humanitarian Action for Children 2012’ report, which launches tomorrow.
Piped water project offers health, opportunities to Angolan families
LUANDA, Angola, 25 January 2012 – When Beatriz da Encarnação got her own tap, the ready access to clean water quickly improved the health of her sons, 8-year-old Filipi Capitango and 8-month-old Beomiro Pedro.
UNICEF and EU-supported training for teachers boosts education quality in Angola
LUANDA, Angola, 17 January – Just off the main road, next to the ruins of a whitewashed chapel, a jacaranda tree is in bloom. Beneath the petals, children sit on brightly coloured plastic chairs, watching their teacher attentively. Lucrecia Agostinho draws apples and oranges to illustrate an arithmetic problem on a blackboard.
Partners work to bring peace to children associated with armed groups in DR Congo
BUKAVU, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 16 January 2012 – “I was 13 years old when the rebels came to my village. They didn’t ask questions. ‘Take your jacket and come, or we kill you,’” recounts Christian, 16.* “I stayed with them for three years, no thinking, just functioning.”
Marking its first year without any polio cases, India takes a giant leap toward wiping out the disease
NEW YORK, USA, 12 January 2012 – Once recognized as the epicenter of the polio epidemic, India is now on the verge of creating history by stopping the transmission of polio.
Somalia’s refugees return home to rebuild the country’s education system
SOMALILAND, Somalia, 10 January 2012 – Ali Abdullah stands at the front of the class asking students their ages, how long they take to walk to school, whether they are orphans, and whether any have learning or development needs.
UNICEF education staff look back at a year of challenges and inspiration
NEW YORK, USA, 5 January 2012 – UNICEF education staff around the globe share the most inspiring moments they experienced in 2011, events that that reminded them why they chose their professions. Below is a selection of their stories. More stories can be found here.
Increasing local capacity to end child malnutrition in Haiti
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, 4 January 2012 – More than 40 women, most of them cradling babies, sit shoulder-to-shoulder in the small waiting room of the Martissant Community Clinic. By day’s end, more than 150 women will arrive to see the clinic’s medical or nutrition staff.
Accelerated learning offers disadvantaged children in Mali a chance to go to school
BAMAKO, Mali, 4 January 2012 – “My dream is to become a doctor, to treat children in difficult circumstances,” said Assan Coulibaly, 10. Her father passed away, and she now lives with her mother, who gets by with the income from a small business. Assan has three sisters and a brother. Helping at home has meant missing the opportunity to be enrolled in school.
Cash transfers transform lives of vulnerable children in Liberia
BOMI COUNTY, Liberia, 30 December 2011 – Despite immense hardships in her life, Sara Dennis, a mother of six in Bomi County, north-western Liberia, is in high spirits. “I am illiterate and so is my husband, however all my five school-age children are educated. And in a few years, they will have finished their studies and get prestigious jobs,” she said.
The Government of Japan has announced a pledge of US$9.3 million to fund polio eradication efforts in Afghanistan
KABUL, Afghanistan, 29 December 2011 – Meeting at the immunization centre of the Indira Ghandi Hospital in bustling Kabul on 10 December, representatives of the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and UNICEF announced the Government of Japan’s pledge of US$9.3 million to fund an infectious disease prevention programme for the children of Afghanistan.
Educating children with disabilities in Niger
NIAMEY, Niger, 19 December 2011 – “‘Dream on.’ That was how everyone responded to our ideas in those days,” says Fatou Sidibé, head of the Division for Special Education at the Ministry of Education in Niger. “No one could figure out how to create specialized educational services for children with disabilities.”
Campaign promoting the inclusion of children with disabilities yields positive results in Montenegro
PODGORICA, Montenegro, 15 December, 2011 – This week, Montenegro’s Prime Minister Igor Luksic and UNICEF Representative Benjamin Perks unveiled the impact of a groundbreaking campaign promoting the inclusion of children with disabilities into society.
UNICEF at 65: Looking back, thinking ahead
NEW YORK, USA, 9 December 2011 - On 11 December, UNICEF celebrates its 65th anniversary. Created in 1946 from the residual resources of the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration to secure the fate of Europe’s children, few then imagined that it would still be in existence today. In the six and a half decades since it was formed, UNICEF continues to assist children affected by war and crisis, but has also taken on a much broader and ever-evolving role in international development, working across political, national and social divides to provide integrated services to children and advocate for the full spectrum of their rights.
Botswana commemorates the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child
GABORONE, Botswana, 9 December 2011 – Sixteen years have passed since Botswana ratified the Convention on the Rights of a Child (CRC). To commemorate this anniversary, UNICEF organized an art fair for 50 children with disabilities. ‘Thari ya Bana – Reflections on the Children of Botswana 2011’, the second edition of a report on the situation of children in the country, was also launched to mark the occasion.
Media workshops empower youth to address climate change in Zambia
LUSAKA, Zambia, 8 December 2011 – To 17-year-old Msonda Chibwana from Lusaka, climate change is not just a topic for debate; it is a reality that has affected his family’s livelihood and taken food from their table.
Children’s Forum places focus on digital safety for Turkey’s youth
ANKARA, Turkey, 1 December 2011 - A landmark meeting was held recently at the national parliament to advocate for children and young people’s optimal and safe use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
New ‘resource pack’ developed by UNICEF provides fresh perspective on understanding children
NEW YORK, United States, 8 November 2011 – It’s being considered a breakthrough in communication strategies for children – a ‘resource pack’ developed by UNICEF, which provides development professionals with a fresh perspective on understanding children, by producing media and materials specifically for, and about them.
Somali journalists attend UNICEF-supported workshop to focus on humanitarian reporting
HARGEISA, Somalia, 20 October 2011 – Correct information is essential to accurate reporting, Ahmed Ali Mohamed, a trainer for Radio Ergo, recently told a gathering of 27 Somali journalists at a five-day multimedia workshop on humanitarian reporting held in Hargeisa.
Goodwill Ambassador Angélique Kidjo visits an innovative programme for victims of child abuse in Mexico
MEXICO CITY, Mexico, 20 October 2011 – On her recent tour of the Iztapalapa Paediatric Hospital in Mexico City, internationally acclaimed singer and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Angélique Kidjo swept through corridors, scooping children into her arms, delighting patients and parents alike.
UNICEF-supported programme aims to rehabilitate ex-gang members in Honduras
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras, 12 October 2011 - Oscar, 25, has lived a good deal of his childhood and adolescence as a member of gang 18, one of the biggest and most violent currently operating in Honduras. He was barely nine years old when he dropped out of school and joined the gang. Alone in the world, his fellow gang members became his family.
In Sudan, a photo contest offers children an opportunity to document daily life
KHARTOUM, Sudan, 12 October, 2011 - A line of children walk to school; a group of men take shelter under a truck in order to escape the hot African sun; a child reads the Koran on a brightly-coloured prayer mat; a man leads a camel through the dust. These are just a handful of scenes from daily life in the Sudanese state of North Darfur captured by child photographers as part of an unusual photography project.
Community-based support reaches South Africa’s most vulnerable and marginalised children
GAUTENG, South Africa, 11 October 2011 - The ‘model’ of community-based childcare known as Isibindi, was developed by the National Association of Child Care Workers (NACCW), in response to the impact of AIDS and poverty on South Africa’s children. Isibindi has proved to be a successful method of ensuring community-led support for orphaned and vulnerable children - and one of the reasons for this is its consideration of all a child needs.
UNICEF and ECHO aim to prevent waterborne disease in Togo, by promoting safe hygiene practices
LOMÉ, Togo, 10 October 2011 - In October 2010, Togo experienced heavy seasonal rains which caused flooding in most parts of the country. Affecting more than 82, 000 people, the southern region of Maritime was amongst the hardest hit, as floods severely damaged agricultural land and water systems in the areas surrounding the capital city of Lomé.
UNICEF-supported programme having a positive effect on health and education in DR Congo
BUNYAKIRI, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 7 October 2011 - In the small village of Bitale in eastern DR Congo, over 500 children studying at the Mikonzi Primary School are receiving a quality education thanks to UNICEF’s Programme of Expanded Assistance to Return Plus (PEAR+), which facilitated the construction of the building.
UNICEF and partners aim to end harmful practices towards children and women in Guinea-Bissau
CANQUEBO, Guinea-Bissau, 4 October 2011 - Thanks to the intervention of the NGO Tostan, whose ongoing actions are helping to change long-held erroneous attitudes, customs, and traditions, the inhabitants of Canquebo village can now rest assured that the days of harmful practices towards women and children are numbered.
In Burundi, interactive theatre empowers local communities in the fight against malaria
NGOZI, Burundi, 3 October 2011 - “Give it back! You will not sell this! Malaria is killing our babies!” screams a young woman, as she engages in a passionate tug-of-war with her father over a blue plastic bag. A crowd of onlookers quickly gather around the duo, offering up their cheers, laughter and enthusiastic applause.
UNICEF provides support to Palestinian students through rehabilitation and psychosocial sessions
DKAIKA, Occupied Palestinian Territory, 29 September 2011 - Located just 70 metres away from the Green Line - the 1949 Armistice Line – in Israeli-controlled Area ‘C’, the villagers of Dkaika are forced to suffer under the daily risk of home demolition and harassment.
In Burkina Faso, leaders meet to discuss the importance of investing in nutrition
OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso, 21 September 2011– Recently nominated Nutrition Advocate for West Africa, and President of Cape Verde from 1991 to 2001, Mr. António Manuel Mascarenhas Gomes Monteiro has ended a three-day visit to Burkina Faso ahead of his participation at the UN High Level Meeting on Nutrition in New York on 20 September 2011. In his new role, Mr. Monteiro is engaging with senior government officials on the importance of investing in nutrition not only to reduce the burden of undernutrition and child mortality, but also to increase economic development throughout the region.
Podcast #45: Regional conference to focus on inclusive education for children with disabilities
NEW YORK, USA, 22 September 2011 – Over 1.5 million children in Central and Eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CEE/CIS) live with disabilities. Commonly locked up in segregated institutions or hidden away in their homes, children with disabilities are one of the most marginalised groups in our society. They are often denied their basic right to quality education and lack opportunities to interact with their peers and actively participate in society.
Zimbabwe’s children advocate for Bill of Rights in the new Constitution
HARARE, Zimbabwe, 16 September 2011 – This past July, the 19th Session of Zimbabwe’s Junior Parliament officially opened, with the incoming Child President, Anesu Rangwani pledging a greater role by children in the crafting of a new constitution that should incorporate a separate Bill of Rights for children.
Children's Act provides new tools for protecting child rights in Zanzibar
STONE TOWN, Zanzibar, Tanzania, 25 August 2011 – The President of Zanzibar, Dr. Ali Mohamed Shein, has signed into law a comprehensive Children’s Act aimed at providing better protection for the rights and welfare of children living in this semi-autonomous island region of the United Republic of Tanzania.
In DR Congo, fundraiser aims to raise US$4 million for provincial child protection plan
LUBUMBASHI, Democratic Republic of the Congo,16 August 2011— On June 24, a fundraising gala organized following this year’s Day of the African Child gathered over 100 local authorities, development partners, businesspeople, parents and children around one shared goal – making child protection a tangible issue in Southern DR Congo.
Cash transfers provide social protection to Zambia's most vulnerable families
LIVINGSTONE, Zambia, 1 August 2011 – The spectacular Victoria Falls, on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, draws thousands of tourists from around the world every year. Nearby, but a world away from the luxury hotels, lies Muntumuswana village – one of the places where the Zambian Government, UNICEF and other partners are making inroads against the intergenerational cycle of poverty by providing cash transfers to vulnerable families.
UNICEF hosts briefing on corporate social responsibility and children
NEW YORK, USA, 7 July 2011 – Government representatives from UN Member States gathered at UNICEF headquarters recently for a briefing and discussion on Children’s Rights and Business Principles (CRBP), the first comprehensive set of global standards for child-friendly business practices.
In Zimbabwe, Braille textbooks provide more chidren with equal access to learning
HARARE, Zimbabwe, 30 June 2011 – Laura Muzambi, 12, is reading a story which begins with the author writing about a girl called Mary. He describes in detail her glossy red hair, dazzling eyes and colourful dress.
Podcast #41: After the conflict, young people work to bring about social change in Kosovo
NEW YORK, USA, 28 June 2011 – With an estimated 53 per cent of its population under the age of 25, Kosovo is considered to be the youngest part of Europe.
UNICEF joins other agencies in Tanzania in signing the first UN Development Assistance Plan
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, 28 June 2011 – A breakthrough in United Nations cooperation took place last Friday in Tanzania as Ramadhani Khijjah, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance in the United Republic of Tanzania, and Alberic Kacou, the UN Resident Coordinator, led the signing of the first United Nations Development Assistance Plan (UNDAP).
UNICEF and Special Olympics usher in new era of protection for children with disabilities
ATHENS, Greece, 27 June 2011 – As the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games once again buzzes with the spirit of competition, UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake joined cheering athletes, family members and other supporters from around the world who are celebrating the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games.
UNICEF Executive Board session wraps up with a renewed commitment to equity
NEW YORK, USA, 24 June 2011 – The UNICEF Executive Board wrapped up its 2011 Annual Session yesterday with a renewed commitment to delivering results for the world’s most disadvantaged children – even as a decline in core resources challenges UNICEF and its partners to work more creatively.
Nepal celebrates becoming the second country in Asia to become free of minefields
KATHMANDU, Nepal, 22 June 2011 – As monsoon clouds gathered over Phulchowki hill, in the south-western rim of Kathmandu valley, two loud explosions filled the air. Guests cheered as smoke billowed from the top of the 2,700 metre hill. Nepal had become free of minefields.
Goodwill Ambassador Shakira inspires Israeli and Palestinian children during school visit
JERUSALEM, 22 June 2011 – UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and global education advocate Shakira visited the Max Rayne ‘Hand-in-Hand’ School for Bilingual Education in Jerusalem yesterday, meeting with students to talk about the power of education.
In Armenia, parliamentarians commit to invest in early childhood development programmes
YEREVAN, Armenia, 21 June 2011 – More than 30 parliamentarians from Central and Eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CEECIS) gathered for a three-day regional conference in Armenia.
Delegates gather in New York to promote and protect the rights of children with disabilities
NEW YORK, USA, 20 June 2011 – A distinguished set of experts and advocates on the rights of children with disabilities convened at UN Headquarters last Friday to discuss promoting and protecting the rights of children with disabilities.
Goodwill Ambassador Danny Glover visits Cuba to support people of African descent
HAVANA, Cuba, 20 June 2011 – UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and internationally acclaimed actor Danny Glover visited Havana last week to attend the opening session of the regional workshop entitled ‘Cuba and the Afro-Descendant Peoples of the Americas’.
Donors commit $4.3 billion to scale up GAVI Alliance’s immunization efforts to 2015
LONDON, United Kingdom, 13 June 2011 – UNICEF, a founding partner of the Global Alliance on Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI Alliance), today welcomed the commitment of $4.3 billion by donors at a fundraising conference in London to step up vaccination efforts over the next four years.
Disability Rights Convention distributed in Braille, audio and sign language in Montenegro
CETINJE, Montenegro, 13 June 2011 – Six children with visual and hearing impairments have received the first copies in the Balkans of the child-friendly version of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Braille, audio and sign language.
UNICEF Executive Director and other leaders focus on children in the fight against HIV/AIDS
NEW YORK, USA, 10 June 2011 – Children and mothers must be at the centre of the global HIV/AIDS response, UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake told a distinguished gathering of leaders in the fight against AIDS in New York last night.
Education a catalyst: a conversation with Nobel Laureate Mairead Maguire
NEW YORK, USA, 8 June 2011 – In 1976, Mairead Maguire was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her extraordinary actions to end violence in Northern Ireland, her native country.
UNICEF co-hosts consultations on first-ever global standards for child-friendly businesses
NEW YORK, USA, 7 June 2011 – Business leaders and civil society representatives met in London and Delhi in May for consultations on setting the first-ever global standards for child-friendly business practices. A set of Children’s Rights and Business Principles (CRBP) will be launched in November based on these and other consultations, which are giving stakeholders an active role in shaping and developing the guidelines.
At Japan global meeting on development goals, UNICEF Executive Director highlights equity
TOKYO, Japan, 6 June 2011 – Reaching the world’s poorest and most disadvantaged children and families is the need of the hour. That was the overarching message conveyed by Executive Director Anthony Lake late last week at a meeting hosted by the Government of Japan and organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the UN Development Programme, the World Bank and UNICEF.
In Turkmenistan, Third Central Asian Child Protection Forum calls for juvenile justice reform
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, 1 June 2011 – Children facing trial or in police custody and detention are among the most vulnerable in society, a five-country child protection forum has been told as it meets to discuss the rights of children.
Teaching Libyan children the devastating effects of explosive remnants of war
BENGHAZI, Libya, 31 May 2011 – Around 30 young boys are hovering expectantly outside a community centre. They peer over each other’s shoulders to try to get a better look at the cardboard boxes filled with pictures.
Young reporters' network empowers youth to be heard in Tanzania
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, 27 May 2011 – Modest, 17, has been living on the streets of Moshi in the Kilimanjaro Region for the past 14 months. Despite his grim upbringing and current situation, he has found a way to get his story heard and learn new skills – by joining the Young Reporters Network.
Universal ratification of Optional Protocols on child rights within reach
NEW YORK, USA, 18 May 2011 – On the first anniversary of a campaign for universal ratification of the two Optional Protocols to the Convention of the Rights of the Child, advocates held a forum in New York earlier this week on enacting legislation to protect all children from violence and exploitation by 2012.
Youth panel raises awareness on initiatives to advance the rights of indigenous peoples
NEW YORK, USA, 20 May 2011 – A compelling conversation on youth initiatives to promote and protect the rights of indigenous peoples took place yesterday at UNICEF House in New York. The dialogue aimed to raise awareness about how indigenous young people are taking leadership and making a difference in their communities around the world.
Young Moroccans work with the government to draft youth-centred policies
BOUZNIKA, Morocco, 25 May 2011 – Young Moroccans gathered this week in the coastal city of Bouznika to play an active role in drafting a national youth strategy.
In Geneva, young people launch 'Children’s Charter' for staying safe in disasters
GENEVA, Switzerland, 23 May 2011 – Children make up more than half the population in countries predicted to be most affected by climate change and are facing increasing impacts from tumultuous events. It is estimated that as many as 175 million children a year will soon be affected by disasters.
UNICEF symposium highlights increasing number of young migrants
NEW YORK, USA, 17 May 2011 – UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake has highlighted the increasingly important issue of young people’s migration at an international symposium held at UNICEF House.
Young parliamentarians stress need for investment in technology in Namibia
WINDHOEK, Namibia, 16 May 2011 – Last week’s Third Session of Namibia’s Children’s Parliament had a clear message: information and communication technology (ICT) skills and services are essential if the country is to achieve its vision of reaching industrialized nation status by 2030.
Podcast #40: Safe schools and education can reduce the impact of disasters
GENEVA, Switzerland, 13 May 2011 – Last year, children bore their share of natural disasters and the economic crises that followed. Millions of children suffered as a result of floods in Pakistan and the earthquake in Haiti. Millions more around the world suffer every year, as such disasters prevent them from accessing a quality education.
Empowering marginalized children through photography in Mali
BAMAKO, Mali, 28 April 2011 – Hawa Coulibaly, 16, has spent the last nine months training to become a tailor, but she is also interested in photography. “By the end of the training, I hope I will know how to take pictures of my designs,” she says on the first day of the Eye See workshop.
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Tetsuko Kuroyanagi visits children in Haiti
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, 26 April 2011 – The small classroom at Nouvelle Source School in Port-au-Prince was bustling with students when UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Tetsuko Kuroyanagi arrived to join them in drawing messages of support for children in Japan.
African adolescents gather to review progress on youth development
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, 18 April 2011 – About 300 adolescents from across Africa and the diaspora gathered at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, earlier this month to review progress made by African governments in implementing youth initiatives.
Launch of the European Parliament 'Alliance for Children'
BRUSSELS, Belgium, 6 April 2011 – The European Parliament has launched a new ‘Alliance for Children’ in partnership with UNICEF and a group of international non-governmental organizations – the Children’s Rights Action Group – including Save the Children, Plan International, Eurochild and World Vision.
Executive Board members from UN agencies witness development efforts in the Philippines
GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines, 1 April 2011 – From agro-forestry to parent skills initiatives, Executive Board members from various United Nations agencies this week saw how their programmes are helping the Philippines recover from years of armed conflict.
Liam Neeson becomes UNICEF's newest Goodwill Ambassador
NEW YORK, USA, 29 March 2011 – Acclaimed actor Liam Neeson has emphasized his commitment to vulnerable children by becoming UNICEF’s newest Goodwill Ambassador.
UNICEF launches video spot warning of the dangers of landmines
NEW YORK, 25 March 2011 – UNICEF has released a new public service announcement (PSA) about the dangers posed by landmines.
UNICEF report: Rights of women and children remain critical in Zimbabwe
HARARE, Zimbabwe, 22 March 2011 – Tanaka Zoma, 14, is in seventh grade at Musarava Primary School in Zaka, Masvingo Province. He should be in ninth grade like most of his friends.
Podcast #37: Ensuring human rights key to educating children in conflict zones
NEW YORK, 10 March 2011 – This year’s ‘Education for All’ Global Monitoring Report warns that armed conflict is robbing 28 million primary school-aged children of their education. The comprehensive analysis – ‘The hidden crisis: Armed conflict and education – finds that wars and violence are taking an unprecedented toll on children’s access to education.
UNICEF and UNFPA launch report: ‘Women’s and Children’s Rights: Making the Connection’
NEW YORK, USA, 1 March 2011 – UNICEF and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched a joint publication, ‘Women’s and Children’s Rights: Making the Connection,’ last week with a panel session on tensions and opportunities in their shared goal of securing the rights of women and children worldwide.
Podcast #35: Partnering with the philanthropic community to promote education for all
NEW YORK, USA, 28 February 2011 – The United Nations Economic and Social Council is meeting at UN Headquarters in New York this week on partnering with the philanthropic community to promote education for all children.
Flagship report launched: Adolescents are key to prosperity and equity
NEW YORK, USA, 25 February 2011 – Young people are the key to a more equitable and prosperous world, according to UNCEF’s new flagship report, ‘The State of the World’s Children 2011 – Adolescence: An Age of Opportunity,’ launched today at UN headquarters in New York.
Executive Board session wraps up with an eye on management, partnerships - and results
NEW YORK, USA, 11 February 2011 – The UNICEF Executive Board has wrapped up its first regular session of 2011 with an emphasis on improved management, strengthened partnerships and evidence-based results for the world’s most vulnerable children. In the final two days of the four-day meeting at UN headquarters, the Executive Board received pledges of support from member states and adopted decisions on budget, planning and programme activities for the coming year.
UNICEF and University of Botswana launch joint publication on CRC anniversary
GABORONE, Botswana, 20 January 2011 – Marking more than 21 years since the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) by the United Nations General Assembly and over 15 years since Botswana ratified the Convention, UNICEF and the University of Botswana have launched a joint publication, ‘Thari ya Bana: Reflections on Children in Botswana.’
UNICEF partners with religious leaders to improve maternal and child health
NEW YORK, USA, 3 December 2010 – Tens of thousands of Congolese Muslims gathering for prayers in Kinshasa’s Martyrs Stadium heard an unusual message this past Eid Al Adha when their imam, Sheikh Abdala Mangala Mwana Luaba, urged mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies during the six first months of life.
In Zambia, 'Unite for Climate' youth ambassadors raise environmental awareness
MONGU, Zambia, 2 December 2010 – “I see more disasters such as floods if the current climate change trends do not change. Floods continue destroying schools [and] increasing levels of illiteracy as children drop out of school,” said Unite for Climate Zambia Ambassador Tambudzai Mutale, 17, in a recent podcast.
Hyderbad festival celebrates the rights of children in Pakistan
SINDH PROVINCE, Pakistan, 2 December 2010 – It was a rare day of celebration for hundreds of children from flood-affected areas – a day made possible by UNICEF and its partner Nutkhut Publications – when they came together recently in Hyderabad for a festival marking the 20th anniversary of Pakistan’s ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child Right.
UNICEF and partners report progress on preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission
NEW YORK, USA, 30 November 2010 – Halfway through a 10-year campaign to reverse the spread of AIDS, UNICEF and its partners are making significant progress in preventing mothers from passing the disease onto their children.
Norway reinforces its commitment to UNICEF and the world's children
NEW YORK, USA, 29 November 2010 – One of UNICEF’s most significant donors has reinforced its commitment to the education and rights of children. The Norwegian Government has promised nearly $200 million in 2010-2011 to continue its longstanding support for UNICEF’s work, particularly in the area of girls’ education.
Podcast #31: Young people call for post-primary education opportunities
NEW YORK, USA, 29 November 2010 – In efforts to address and prevent the often overlooked global youth population from falling through programming, policy and funding cracks, the Inter-Agency Network for Education in Emergencies (INEE) held a policy roundtable on ‘An Enabling Right: Education for Youth Affected by Crisis’ in Geneva, Switzerland earlier this month.
European Union and UNICEF support maternal and child health in Uzbekistan
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, 24 November 2010 – Improving maternal and child health services is a key priority for the Government of Uzbekistan, and UNICEF and European Union support is helping – as highlighted during an EU delegation’s visit to the country last week.
Ugandans call for action at UNICEF-sponsored 'Future Search' conference in Karamoja
MUNYONYO, Uganda, 16 November 2010 – How do you improve life for people living in Karamoja, the poorest region of Uganda? That was the question facing some 60 lawmakers, young people, development partners, civil society representatives and other leaders who recently gathered for a three-day planning meeting in Munyonyo, Uganda.
UNICEF supports Beijing high-level conference on child rights in Asia and the Pacific
BEIJING, China, 8 November, 2010 – The conference started in the vast grandeur of China’s Great Hall of the People with one of the land’s most powerful leaders at the helm, and it ended with delegates from 28 countries in Asia and the Pacific symbolically stamping their thumbprints in red on a small screen.
At regional workshop in Namibia, African parliamentarians vow to do more for children
WINDHOEK, Namibia, 5 November 2010 – There is a growing recognition in Eastern and Southern Africa that child-sensitive protection policies are a critical way to provide a social safety net for the region’s poorest and most vulnerable children. Recently, Members of Parliament from across the region committed to pass better aimed at creating social policies that protect children.
African Development Forum builds consensus on climate change and sustainable growth
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, 3 November 2010 – Hundreds of stakeholders from across the continent gathered here recently for the Seventh African Development Forum, or ADF VII, to discuss the forum’s theme, ‘Acting on Climate Change for Sustainable Development in Africa.’
European Union parliamentarians applaud Mother-Child Health project in Uzbekistan
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, 2 November 2010 – Members of Parliament from the European Union visited Tashkent in October to see the positive results that Uzbekistan’s Mother and Child Health (MCH) project has produced – including improvements in safe motherhood and survival of newborns and children under the age of five.
Activism for change: A conversation with Nobel Laureate Jody Williams
NEW YORK, USA, 2 November 2010 – In a recent conversation with UN and UNICEF Radio moderator Amy Costello, activist Jody Williams talked about her leading role in the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, and about leading a women’s peace delegation to the Middle East. Her experiences hold potential lessons for achieving the UN Millennium Development Goal of universal primary education.
Striving to achieve the Millennium Development Goals with equity in Bangladesh
DHAKA, Bangladesh, 25 October 2010 – How can Bangladesh achieve the United Nations Millennium Development Goals with equity? This question was at the heart of a recent national seminar jointly organized in Dhaka by UNICEF and the Bangladesh Economic Association, and attended by Minister of Finance Abul Maal Abdul Muhith and State Minister of Women and Children Affairs Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury.
World Statistics Day: There’s power in numbers
NEW YORK, USA, 20 October 2010 – The importance of numbers in shaping our lives was acknowledged worldwide today on the first-ever World Statistics Day. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for the observance to celebrate the role of statistics in social and economic development – and to pay tribute to the global community of statisticians, whose contributions sometimes go unnoticed.
UNICEF and the European Union: Partners for children
NEW YORK, USA, 18 October 2010 – UNICEF has been working to protect the rights of children for over 60 years, but it can only achieve the best results by working in partnerships – such as the unparalleled relationship between UNICEF and the European Union (EU).
Early childhood interventions key to achieving global equity, experts say
NEW YORK, USA, 14 October 2010 – Experts consider the period between birth and three years of age the most vital time for a child’s brain development and the time of greatest vulnerability to survival, nutritional and hygiene risks. But supporting children during these critical years is rarely a priority in national policies, programmes and budgets.
UNICEF and European Union rehabilitate medical infrastructure in rural Côte d'Ivoire
YAPLEU, Côte d’Ivoire, 6 October 2010 – It’s Tuesday morning at the Yapleu health centre in the Central Northwest region of Côte d’Ivoire. This means it’s check-up time – and Yapleu’s team of midwives and nurses are eagerly examining the local children.
Angolan organization targets most vulnerable in agriculture, HIV and other key areas
XANGOGO, Angola, 5 October 2010 – Large bulldozers removed river sand as workmen rolled fresh tar over the new bridge in Xangongo. The small town is home to little more than a bakery, a gas station and a small hotel for the truckers who haul South African goods into southern Angola. Development has arrived in Xangongo.
Cash-transfer programme in Ethiopia transforms lives of vulnerable families
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, 1 October 2010 – Roman Zewdu, 22, styles hair in the salon she opened in the front half of the one-room home she shares with her two younger sisters in Gondar Town.
In Pakistan's Swat valley, health workers reach out to women and children already struggling
SWAT VALLEY, Pakistan, 28 September 2010 - The scenic Swat valley in Pakistan’s northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is facing a complex emergency situation. Since May 2009 military operations and conflict have ravaged the area and in July 2010 floods came, affecting some 3.8 million people in the province and devastating thousands.
Despite challenges, UNICEF partners in Mogadishu strive to reach women and children
MOGADISHU, Somalia, 29 September 2010 – It is hard to think of a place where children are more at risk than Somalia.
Signing onto international protocols, Member States join fight to protect child rights
NEW YORK, USA, 29 September 2010 – Several new countries signed or ratified the Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child during a treaty event at the 65th UN General Assembly, further strengthening the rights of children worldwide.
UNICEF Executive Director calls for renewed commitment to end recruitment of child soldiers
NEW YORK, USA, 28 September 2010 – UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake has called for an extra commitment from all governments to end the use of children in war.
MDG summit events close at UNICEF with a call to action on helping the most vulnerable
NEW YORK, USA, 23 September 2010 – At UNICEF’s closing event for the UN Millennium Development Goals summit last night, experts and world leaders gathered to highlight the importance of reaching the world’s most disadvantaged and hardest-to-reach children in order to achieve the MDGs with equity by 2015.
MDG summit events seek progress for all, including the most vulnerable
NEW YORK, USA, 22 September 2010 – The UN Millennium Development Goals summit wrapped up with a strong emphasis on targeting the poorest and most vulnerable communities in order to meet the MDGs by their 2015 target date. In the final stretch of the busy three-day meeting, UNICEF participated in side events on three critical MDG target areas: maternal health, water and sanitation, and education.
On day two, events at MDG summit spotlight HIV/AIDS, nutrition, partnerships – and equity
NEW YORK, USA, 21 September 2010 – UNICEF took part in a packed agenda of side events during the second day of the UN Millennium Development Goals summit, spotlighting progress made and challenges ahead on HIV/AIDS, child health and nutrition.
UN Millennium Development Goals summit kicks off with events on education and child survival
NEW YORK, USA, 20 September 2010 – The United Nations High-level Plenary Meeting on the Millennium Development Goals – the MDGs – kicked off today in New York with side events highlighting the goals on education and child survival. Discussions echoed the key conclusion of UNICEF’s recent ‘Progress for Children’ report: that an equity-based approach, targeting the poorest of the poor, offers the best hope of achieving the MDGs by their 2015 target date.
Partners in Côte d’Ivoire work to reach thousands with safe water
BOUAKÉ, Côte d’Ivoire, 20 September 2010 – At a checkpoint on the road leading to Niéméné, Côte d’Ivoire, stand three armed men in uniform. It has been eight years since Côte d’Ivoire was split in two, with Bouaké as the command centre of the rebel-held north, and life here is slowly returning to normal.
Unique education in emergencies fund reaches out to the most vulnerable
NEW YORK, USA, 17 September 2010 – Representatives of the Government of the Netherlands, the European Commission and UNICEF met in New York this week to review progress achieved under an innovative programme to improve Education in Emergencies and Post-Crisis Transition.
Cash transfer programme helps the poorest families in Malawi survive
MCHINJE DISTRICT, Malawi, 7 September 2010 - For two years, Rozina Chimbalani has struggled to feed, clothe and school the four grandchildren left in her care after her daughter died. Across Malawi, this has been a painfully common story, as for more than two decades HIV has shattered families and left more than a million children orphaned.
Strides still needed in girls' education, says women's rights expert
NEW YORK, 7 September 2010 – Education is a key component of United Nations Millennium Development Goal 3: to promote gender equality and empowerment of women. According to UNICEF’s flagship ‘Progress for Children’ report 2010 – subtitled ’Achieving the MDGs with Equity’ – most countries have reached or are close to reaching the MDG target for gender parity in primary education.
'Progress for Children' report sheds new light on achieving Millennium Development Goals
NEW YORK, USA, 7 September 2010 – Addressing the needs of the poorest of the poor is the key to meeting ambitious development goals and reducing global injustice, according to a UNICEF’s latest ‘Progress for Children’ report. The report was released today, during the first day of a UNICEF Executive Board session at United Nations headquarters in New York.
New UNICEF report calls for reducing disparities among children in Viet Nam
HA NOI, Viet Nam, 3 September 2010 – According to key findings presented in a UNICEF report entitled ‘An Analysis of the Situation of Children in Viet Nam 2010,’ Viet Nam has made tremendous progress for its children in a remarkably short period of time, with unprecedented reduction in under-five mortality rates and poverty.
Delegation from Nepal sees child-rights initiatives supported by UNICEF in Brazil
BRASILIA, Brazil, 28 July 2010 – Senior representatives of the Government of Nepal visited Brazil recently to learn about initiatives developed by UNICEF and its partners here. The visit was an example of cooperation between developing countries, in which they share knowledge, experiences and best practices on various aspects of development.
African Youth Forum delegates set to deliver their call to action to AU Summit leaders
MUNYONYO, Uganda, 23 July 2010 – Bonolo Cebe, 18,of South Africa is one of the three young delegates selected by their peers to present a call to action to leaders at the 15th session of the Assembly of African Union Summit this Sunday, 25 July. Over 100 young people from 40 countries drafted the message earlier this week in Uganda, at the first-ever African Youth Forum, or AYF.
African Youth Forum issues call to action for leaders at Uganda summit
ENTEBBE, UGANDA, 20 July 2010 – A group of more than 100 young people from across Africa are ready to deliver a clear message to leaders of the countries in the African Union, who will be attending the 2010 AU Summit in Kampala, the Ugandan capital.
Ugandan delegates prepare to speak out on development at first African Youth Forum
KAMPALA,Uganda, 13 July 2010 – At first glance, it seems an ordinary day in the UNICEF country office here – until the cameras zoom in and reporters begin interviewing young people selected as the Ugandan delegates to the first-ever African Youth Forum, or AYF. The Forum will be held in Entebbe from 17 to 19 July.
Governments, donors and UN commit to ‘Delivering as One’ at Viet Nam conference
HA NOI, Viet Nam, 17 June 2010 – “Much has been achieved, more needs to be done. ‘Delivering as One’ is the future for UN development activities.”
Executive Board concludes meeting with an eye on gender equality, resources and results
NEW YORK, USA, 7 June 2010 – On Friday, 4 June, the final day of the UNICEF Executive Board’s 2010 Annual Session, delegates were briefed on the progress of the organization’s efforts to promote gender equality and heard Executive Director Anthony Lake reaffirm UNICEF’s dedication to achieving the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.
UN and UNICEF urge all countries to adopt measures protecting children
NEW YORK, 25 May 2010 – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake and other child-rights advocates came together at UNICEF headquarters in New York this morning, calling for all countries to take extra steps aimed at protecting children from violence and exploitation.
In Japan, Anthony Lake cites 'moral imperative' of achieving development goals
TOKYO, Japan, 12 May 2010 – On the second day of his first visit to Japan as UNICEF Executive Director, Anthony Lake met today with His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito, Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada – as well as other government officials, representatives of the Parliamentary League for UNICEF, Japanese Goodwill Ambassadors and children.
UNICEF hosts first annual High-Level Meeting of 'Sanitation and Water for All'
WASHINGTON DC, USA, 11 May 2010 – UNICEF recently hosted the historic first annual High-Level Meeting of the Sanitation and Water for All campaign at World Bank headquarters in Washington, DC.
Multimedia initiative encourages discussion among Nepal's young people
KATHMANDU, Nepal, 6 May 2010 – Around the world, the vast expansion of communication technology – including computers, mobile phones and the Internet – is changing lives. More people than ever before are able to communicate across local and international borders.
Zambian youth delegates confront climate crisis
LUSAKA, Zambia, 3 May 2010 – Luyando Katenda is just 14 years old, but he already speaks like an elder statesman. His platform is climate change, and here in Zambia, he is fast becoming one of the country’s foremost ambassadors on the issue.
UNICEF Executive Board sees unity in diversity among UN partners in Rwanda
MURAMA CHILD-FRIENDLY SCHOOL, Rwanda, 30 April 2010 – Members of the UNICEF Executive Board, along with colleagues from other United Nations agency Executive Boards, recently visited Rwanda to better understand how reforms in the UN system are working on the ground.
At UNICEF panel, indigenous young people speak up for their rights
NEW YORK, USA, 23 April 2010 – Two Brazilian youth advocates have travelled from their small village in the Bahia region of north-eastern Brazil to United Nations headquarters in New York to make an impassioned appeal for the rights of indigenous peoples.
Barclays invests in the future of Rwandan children through child-friendly schools
KIGALI, Rwanda, 21 April 2010 – In November 2008, more than 3,500 employees of Barclays, the global financial services provider, voted to make UNICEF’s ‘child-friendly schools’ project in Rwanda the focus of their 2009 fundraising efforts.
Roll Back Malaria partnership launches Africa Update at UNICEF House event
NEW YORK, USA, 19 April 2010 – UNICEF and the Roll Back Malaria partnership today launched the World Malaria Day 2010 Africa Update, a report highlighting progress towards curbing the deadly mosquito-borne disease in Africa.
Youth voices resound on the airwaves in Nigeria and Malaysia
NEW YORK, USA, 6 April 2010 – On Sunday, 7 March, radio and television audiences around the globe tuned in as local stations took part in the 19th annual International Children’s Day of Broadcasting – and reports about young voices resounding over the airwaves have been coming in for the past month.
Azerbaijan, Kenyan and Honduran children's groups honoured for their leadership
NEW YORK, 26 February 2010 – Three children's groups from Azerbaijan, Honduras and Kenya have been recognized for their outstanding work in promoting children's rights.
Global economic crisis is the focus of 'child-friendly budgets' forum in New York
NEW YORK, USA, 24 February 2010 – UNICEF and Fordham University, with the support of the European Commission, hosted a two-day policy forum and workshop – Child Friendly Budgets for 2010 and Beyond.
Liberian youths report on injustices of education system in Liberia
MONROVIA, Liberia, 11 January 2010 – As Liberia slowly recovers from a 14-year-long civil war, its educational system retains some of the lawlessness that reigned during the conflict.
UNICEF and partners praise new UN resolution on malaria, focus on next steps
NEW YORK, USA, 9 December 2009 – At a reception held at UNICEF headquarters in New York last night, Executive Director Ann M. Veneman welcomed key members of the Roll Back Malaria partnership, who joined her in praising a new UN General Assembly resolution on the killer disease.
Youth 'Climate Ambassador' captures the stage at Copenhagen conference
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, 9 December 2009 – Hundreds of United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15) participants listened as newly minted UNICEF 'Climate Ambassador' Mohamed Axam Maumoon, 15, from Maldives, captured the stage here earlier this week.
At Copenhagen conference, using music to combat climate change
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, 7 December 2009 – As the United Nations Climate Change Conference 2009 formally opened here today, eight newly named UNICEF 'Climate Ambassadors', aged 14 to 17, launched a dialogue on how music bridges generational and cultural divides in the fight to stop climate change.
Copenhagen Children’s Climate Forum declares: the time to fight climate change is now
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, 4 December 2009 - After a week of intensive work and debate, about 160 young people from all over the globe finalized a Declaration today in Copenhagen, committing to personal changes in their own lives and demanding that governments worldwide take actions to protect our planet from the impacts of climate change.
Convention on the Rights of the Child’s 20th anniversary is commemorated with events around the world
NEW YORK, USA, 4 December 2009 – The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the ground-breaking human rights covenant that codifies rights for all children, everywhere, marked its 20th anniversary on 20 November. The milestone was commemorated with events across the globe.
‘The Rights of Children’ photography book marks 20 years of child rights
FLORENCE, Italy, 23 November 2009 – Last week in Rome, a magnificent new book of photographs articulating children’s rights was launched on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
UNICEF and partners commemorate 20 years of Convention on the Rights of the Child
NEW YORK, USA, 20 November 2009 – Today at the United Nations, UNICEF and its partners commemorated the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the ground-breaking human rights covenant that codifies rights for all children, everywhere.
At launch of flagship report, Lucy Liu and Ann M. Veneman celebrate achievements for children
NEW YORK, USA, 19 November 2009 – UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Lucy Liu and former child soldier Grace Akallo joined Executive Director Ann M. Veneman today to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). To mark the occasion, UNICEF has released a special edition of its flagship publication, ‘The State of the World’s Children’, outlining progress made on children’s rights over the past two decades.
Spain’s ‘El País Semanal’ issues special photo edition on child rights
MADRID, SPAIN, 19 November 2009 – For the past six months, Spanish photographer Isabel Muñoz has been traveling around the world, taking photos of children.
Lesotho cash-grants pilot programme aims to ensure vulnerable children’s rights
LEBAKENG, Lesotho, 18 November 2009 – Mapalesa Sebatanyane, 73, is the primary caregiver for her four grandchildren, but she struggles to feed them with the small income she earns raising chickens in this remote village.
Putting children first in the policy response to the global economic downturn
LONDON, United Kingdom, 10 November 2009 – The global economic downturn has disproportionately affected millions of children and women who were already straining under the burden of extreme poverty.
Tanzania passes landmark Law of the Child
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, 6 November 2009 – On Wednesday, Tanzania’s Parliament, the Bunge, passed a bill known as the Law of the Child Act 2009. This landmark legislation effectively domesticates the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child and provides the legal framework through which the rights of the country’s children can be protected and realized.
Zimbabwe children’s parliament speaks out on rights issues
HARARE, Zimbabwe, 6 November 2009 – The 17th session of the Children’s Parliament, a programme of the Zimbabwe Youth Council, opened recently with the aim of spurring the government into action to ensure child survival and empowerment.
UNICEF and Xinhua News Agency join forces to promote children’s rights
BEIJING, China, 5 November 2009 – UNICEF and Xinhua News Agency, the official press agency of the People’s Republic of China, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining joint plans to promote better understanding of the situation of children worldwide.
Focus on children’s rights: UNICEF launches photo exhibit and film festival
NEW YORK, USA, 4 November 2009 – As part of the run-up to 20 November, the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman yesterday introduced a photo exhibit and opened a documentary film festival with a special screening at UNICEF headquarters in New York.
‘I have the right’: UNICEF Russia launches child rights campaign
MOSCOW, Russian Federation, 4 November 2009 – UNICEF Russia has launched a series of public service announcements dedicated to protecting child rights. The campaign underlines the importance of considering the interests of the child in all important decisions, whether at the family or state level.
Prominent essayists reflect on the impact of the Convention on the Rights of the Child
NEW YORK, USA, 3 November 2009 – As part of its commemoration of the CRC’s 20th anniversary, The State of the World’s Children, UNICEF’s annual flagship publication, is launching a new essay series called ‘Perspectives on the Convention on the Rights of the Child.’
Seven youths from Liberia learn how to record, edit, write and produce radio programmes
MONROVIA, Liberia, 30 October 2009 – "The last time I got malaria, I had to leave school because I couldn't walk properly. I couldn't eat," says Veldis Malkor, age 13. "I missed school for about a week."
UNICEF hosts discussion on governance fit for children
NEW YORK, USA, 28 October 2009 – In the effort to make further progress on implementing the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), much depends upon delivering good governance for children. At a panel held at UNICEF House in New York yesterday, experts discussed the interdependence between child rights and good governance.
Young people speak out at event focused on Child Participation
NEW YORK, USA, 16 October 2009 – Six young people stood before an overflowing room of people at UNICEF House to present their views on child participation. Getting adults to listen is their biggest challenge, they said, but these well-spoken activists both inspired and educated their audience – and left everyone thinking about new ways to involve children in matters that affect them.
Partners bolster cross-border political support for African children in crisis
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, 15 October 2009 – Millions of African children live in a state of almost permanent crisis brought on by conflict, instability, disease and the impact of the global economic downturn.
Japan promotes Global Handwashing Day for better hygiene
TOKYO, Japan, 15 October 2009 – Today, millions of children and adults in over 80 countries are marking the second annual Global Handwashing Day with special events and activities. As part of this effort, the Japan Committee for UNICEF and its partners have launched a project to promote handwashing among children in Japan and around the world.
New Malaysian stamps pay tribute to children and their rights
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, 12 October 2009 – To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), Malaysia’s postal service, Pos Malaysia, has introduced a new set of stamps that aims to spread the word about children’s rights.
Global Handwashing Day 2009: Spread the word, not the germs
NEW YORK, USA, 9 October 2009 – Next Thursday, 15 October, marks the second annual Global Handwashing Day, which millions of children and adults will celebrate with special activities in over 80 countries.
UNICEF gets set for global action to ‘Stand Up’ against poverty
NEW YORK, USA, 8 October 2009 – Now in its fourth year, the ‘Stand Up: Take Action’ initiative exhorts individuals, groups and community networks to take action on the Millennium Development Goal of halving the number of people who live in extreme poverty.
More than a bailout: Social protection for children affected by AIDS
NEW YORK, USA, 29 September 2009 – On the eve of the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly earlier this month, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon reported that the near- and working poor in developing nations would be the hardest hit by the worldwide recession.
Young people appeal to world leaders at UN Summit on Climate Change
NEW YORK, USA, 22 September 2009 – A delegation of young people appealed to world leaders for meaningful action today at the UN Secretary-General’s Summit on Climate Change. The group of 13 young participants, ranging from 14 to 18 years of age, asked leaders to come together and make a difference on environmental sustainability.
UNICEF Executive Board concludes second regular session of 2009
NEW YORK, USA – On 16 September, the final day of its second regular session of 2009, the UNICEF Executive Board adopted nine decisions related to UNICEF programme cooperation, evaluation, oversight and budget.
New teaching strategy helps young students excel in Argentina
RESISTENCIA, Argentina, 8 September 2009 – For the first six months of first grade, Maria Angel Gomez struggled to keep up with the other students. She showed little interest in her school work and was slowly falling behind. She couldn't read and her mother worried that Maria Angel would fail and need to repeat first grade, a common problem in Argentina.
Teen editorial from Jamaica: ‘Children have rights, too. Protect them!’
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica has been subject to human rights criticisms in regards to our level of intolerance for sexual diversity, poor rehabilitation facilities, an overburdened and inefficient judicial system, human security and the continued impunity of police officers and state representatives who commit crimes.
A Kyrgyz local hero fights to protect the rights of street children in Bishkek
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, 24 August 2009 – A recent morning for Alexei Petrushevski went something like this: He met a high-ranking city official to get approval of a project ensuring that all of his wards at the Bishkek Centre for Street Children will eventually get birth certificates and other necessary paperwork. Then he rushed off to negotiate the purchase of football jerseys – at discounted rates, of course – for the centre’s new children’s soccer team.
UNICEF partner helps Central African indigenous people learn their rights
NEW YORK/MBAIKI, Lobaye Province, Central African Republic, 7 August 2009 – The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) recognizes the inalienable rights of all people. Yet for many Aka pygmies in the Central African Republic, the notion that they and their children are holders of rights is still an entirely new concept.
In remote areas of Viet Nam, UNICEF supports teaching children about rights
LAO CAI, Viet Nam, 23 July 2009 – Against the dramatic backdrop of the foothills of northern Viet Nam, students at the Kim Dong Lower Secondary gather for their morning exercises. In perfectly straight lines, and with impeccable timing, they go through their routine, which heralds the start of the school day.
‘Children’s Forum’ asks UNICEF to help foster equality and rights in Eritrea
ASMARA, Eritrea, 21 July 2009 – About 100 children from all over Eritrea took part in the country’s first-ever Children’s Forum, organized by UNICEF and the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students earlier this month.
Report finds minority and indigenous children disproportionately excluded from school
NEW YORK, USA, 17 July 2009 – Article 30 of the Convention of the Rights of the Child provides specific protection for children from ethnic, linguistic and religious minorities. But today, 20 years after the adoption of this international treaty, children from marginalized communities and indigenous groups continue to face extraordinary barriers.
Blind children learn about their stake in the Sierra Leone Child Rights Act
FREETOWN, Sierra Leone, 14 July 2009 – Osman Kamara, 16, was born blind in Freetown. At the age of five, he was enrolled at the Milton Margai School for the Blind, and he has lived there ever since. Osman is now a fifth-form pupil in one of the secondary schools in Freetown; with the aid of the Braille, he participates effectively in the classroom and makes good grades.
‘Junior 8’ youth delegates present views to G8 world leaders in Italy
L'AQUILA, Italy, 9 July 2009 – A select group of 14 young people have met with top leaders at the G8 Summit here yesterday and urged them to act on a set of recommendations aimed at protecting child rights around the world.
UNICEF Children's Rights Award inaugurated at 'Beyond Sport' summit in London
LONDON, United Kingdom, 10 July 2009 – As the inaugural 'Beyond Sport' summit took place in London this week, UNICEF presented a special award for an inspirational project that uses sport to ensure children's rights.
Young people open Junior 8 Summit in Rome
ROME, Italy, 7 July 2009 – Bright young minds from around the world have gathered for the Junior 8 Summit, a week-long conference for young people to exchange and debate ideas about how to best improve global conditions for children.
UNICEF contest invites youth videos on children’s rights; deadline 1 August
NEW YORK, USA, 30 June 2009 – People all over the world can talk about children’s rights, but it is children themselves who have firsthand experience on the subject. In honour of the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) – which will be observed later this year – UNICEF is inviting young people around the world to share their thoughts on the issue in video form.
Youth leaders gear up for Junior 8 Summit, to parallel upcoming G8 meeting in Italy
NEW YORK, USA, 26 June 2009 – If you had the opportunity to tell the world’s leaders what they should do to solve global problems, what would you say? That’s the question youth delegates to the Junior 8 Summit will wrestle with as they prepare to meet with presidents and prime ministers from the G8 industrialized nations in Italy next month.
Ensuring a right to special protection for vulnerable child refugees in Chad
IRIBA, Chad, 19 June 2009 – Children protecting the rights of children: That’s the idea behind the workshop being held in Iridimi, one of three camps in northern Chad for refugees from the Darfur region of Sudan.
Executive Board explores strategic framework for partnerships and collaborative work
NEW YORK, USA, 10 June 2009 – In an ever-changing world community now faced with a global financial crisis, UNICEF’s partnerships and collaborative relationships are becoming increasingly crucial.
Montblanc pledges 1.5 million dollars for education programmes
NEW YORK, USA, 1 June 2009 - Montblanc has announced the launch of their ‘Signature for Good’ collection a range of special edition products which will raise 1.5 million dollars for UNICEF’s education and literacy programmes for children worldwide.
National campaign accelerates birth registration in Burkina Faso
OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso, 13 May 2009 – In Burkina Faso, as in many developing countries, millions of children are still making their way through life impoverished, abandoned, malnourished and uneducated. Having gone unregistered since birth, they are in danger of being forgotten and denied access to essential social services.
UN Public Service Award honours water supply initiative in Gujarat, India
GUJARAT, India, 13 May 2009 – The air was charged with excitement in the office of the Water and Sanitation Management Organization (WASMO) after the recent announcement that it had won the prestigious UN Public Service Award for ‘fostering participation in policy-making decisions through innovative mechanisms.’
Ankara hosts international symposium on children in conflict with the law
ANKARA, Turkey, 11 May 2009 – Experts from four continents have recommended that all countries set up national child-information systems to identify children at risk, as well as the risks they face. The recommendation was made in the concluding statement of a three-day international symposium on children at risk and in need of protection, which took place recently in Ankara.
Religious leaders call for ending corporal punishment in Mauritania
ATAR, Mauritania, 6 May 2009 – In the first hour after his arrival at a mahadra (Koranic school) in Atar, Ahmed was beaten several times. Over the next four months, he suffered daily.
`GameChangers’ winners announced: Supporting girls and women through sport
NEW YORK, USA, 6 May 2009 – For the second consecutive year, UNICEF has supported an online sport-for-development competition organized by Ashoka, an international network of social entrepreneurs, and sponsored by Nike. The winners were announced recently.
Special Olympics and UNICEF collaborate in Romania to promote inclusion and acceptance
CLUJ, Romania, 27 April 2009 – Special Olympics and UNICEF have joined forces in Romania to build inclusive communities for children with intellectual disabilities. Most recently, the Sport and Physical Education faculty of Babes-Bolyai University in Cluj organized an event for children both with and without intellectual disabilities, featuring Special Olympics Unified Sports, 'Young Athletes' and 'Healthy Athletes' activities.
UNICEF consultation takes on challenges facing indigenous and minority children
NEW YORK, USA, 16 April 2009 – Personal testimonies led to an intense and passionate dialogue at the opening of the Consultation on Indigenous Peoples’ and Minorities’ Issues, hosted by UNICEF in New York yesterday. Several speakers related stories of their own struggles, highlighting the critical need for increased awareness of the rights of indigenous and minority populations.
At Inter-Parliamentary Union conference, a call to action on adolescent girls’ rights
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, 9 April 2009 – Adolescent girls in developing countries are the world’s greatest untapped resource for stability and growth. As economic actors and future mothers, safe, healthy, educated, economically empowered girls have the means to escape poverty and ignite progress.
Measuring the impact of economic crisis on Indonesian children and families
JAKARTA, Indonesia, 7 April 2009 – Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, is showing signs of further economic decline this year, and the government wants to quickly detect how badly children and poor families are affected.
Executive Board delegation visits urban and rural projects in Kenya
NAIROBI, Kenya, 13 March 2009 – The members of the Bureau of the UNICEF Executive Board have concluded a weeklong field visit to Kenya, where they observed huge disparities in education and health care in the country.
'Girl Power' reception outlines plans for UN task force on adolescent girls
NEW YORK, USA, 6 March 2009 – Leaders from seven international organizations converged for a 'Girl Power and Potential' reception this week in New York. The event featured a panel of speakers outlining the strategies and goals of the United Nations Interagency Task Force on Adolescent Girls.
IKEA-supported training helps ‘hero’ at early-childhood centre in Assam, India
ASSAM, India, 2 March 2009 – Just off the main road of Athabari village, Tarulata Saikia sits in a small room decorated with brightly coloured posters of the Assamese alphabet. Ms. Saikia, 48, is a petite, soft-spoken worker at an ‘Anganwadi’ community child development centre. She has a remarkable story to tell.
‘Beyond Sport’ teams up with UNICEF for Children’s Rights Award nominations
NEW YORK, USA, 17 February 2009 – The search is on to find the world’s most inspirational sport programmes.
‘GameChangers’ competition advances opportunities for girls and women through sport
NEW YORK, USA, 17 February 2009 – Last year, UNICEF supported an online competition, ‘Changemakers: Sport for a Better World’, organized by Ashoka, an international network of social entrepreneurs. This year, UNICEF is supporting Changemakers – Ashoka's online community – in a new initiative called ‘GameChangers: Change the Game for Women in Sport’.
UN Web4Dev conference wraps up with a roadmap for future collaboration
NEW YORK, USA, 13 February 2009 – The fifth annual United Nations ‘Web4Dev’ conference, hosted by UNICEF for the first time, wrapped up today with a roadmap for future collaboration to put technology in the service of global development.
Web4Dev conference kicks off with an eye on the future of innovation
NEW YORK, USA, 11 February 2009 – With plenty of bells and whistles, and not a few mobile phone alerts and Twitter chirps, the fifth annual ‘Web4Dev’ conference kicked off at UNICEF House today.
A ‘Return to Joy’ helps Costa Rican children overcome earthquake's effects
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, 21 January 2009 – UNICEF partnered with Procter & Gamble and the Youth Red Cross to ensure the basic hygiene needs of children living in shelters after the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that shook Costa Rica on 8 January.
Young Belgian photographer wins UNICEF Germany Photo of the Year honours
BERLIN, Germany, 18 December 2008 – Belgian photographer Alice Smeets is the winner of the UNICEF Germany Photo of the Year. Her picture shows a girl in Cité Soleil, the largest slum in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, wearing a clean white dress and ribbons in her hair, despite being surrounded by squalor.
UN launches largest-ever humanitarian appeal for 2009
NEW YORK, USA, 19 November 2008 – Donors, civil society groups and non-governmental organizations gathered in Geneva today for the launch of the UN’s 2009 Consolidated Appeal, or CAP, for humanitarian aid.
Young ‘Peace Messengers’ from Yokohama donate $160,000 to support children
NEW YORK, USA, 10 November 2008 – During a meeting at UNICEF headquarters in New York this morning, Executive Director Ann M. Veneman thanked four children from Japan for their efforts to promote international peace. The Yokohama ‘Peace Messengers’, ranging in age from 11 to 15, raised approximately $160,000 for children’s causes in 2008.
‘Paint for the Planet’ engages young artists in the fight against climate change
NEW YORK, USA, 27 October 2008 – Andrew Bartolo, 15, of San-Gwann, Malta, has a talent for painting. His latest work, which depicts penguins fleeing to unfamiliar territory due to the effects of climate change, earned him a trip to United Nations headquarters.
At Almaty conference, young people share their ideas on global health care
ALMATY, Kazakhstan, 16 October 2008 – Young people from Brazil, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Malta, Philippines, Tanzania and the United States of America gathered in Almaty to take part in the International Conference to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the signing of the Alma-Ata Declaration on Primary Health Care.
UNICEF nominee Paul Farmer receives CDC Foundation Hero Award
NEW YORK, USA, 10 October 2008 – Dr. Paul Farmer, a tireless activist, researcher and public health practitioner whose organization, Partners in Health, provides community-based care for millions of people throughout the developing world, has received the 2008 Hero Award from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Foundation in Atlanta, Georgia.
UN event features $4.5 billion pledge to support ‘Education for All’
NEW YORK, USA, 26 September 2008 – Devli Kumari, now 11, came a long way from a stone quarry in India, where she grew up as a child labourer, to United Nations headquarters in New York, where she spoke at the launch of an ‘Education for All’ campaign during the General Assembly session this week.
At General Assembly event, a call for equity and action on development goals
NEW YORK, USA, 23 September 2008 – On the opening day of the United Nations General Assembly session yesterday, UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman said there is a long way to go to reach the Millennium Development Goals by their 2015 target date. And the challenges are greatest in countries dealing with conflict and post-conflict situations, as well as those most affected by HIV/AIDS.
On day three, child rights takes centre stage at Executive Board session
NEW YORK, USA, 18 September 2008 – Child rights took centre stage on the third day of UNICEF’s Executive Board meeting at United Nations headquarters yesterday. At a special-focus session on policy and advocacy, board members examined and discussed the status of children’s rights in Malawi, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Colombia.
UNICEF Executive Director provides expertise to UN Economic and Social Council panel
NEW YORK, USA, 11 July 2008 – The triple punch of rising food and energy prices, climate change and lagging investment in agriculture is posing fresh challenges for international development programmes and requires the United Nations to enhance cooperation worldwide, UN agency heads agreed at a panel in New York today.
J8 delegates’ action plan grabs the attention of G8 leaders
CHITOSE CITY, Hokkaido, Japan. 8 July 2008 – After days of intense sessions, during which they debated and then drafted their ‘Chitose Declaration’ on issues of concern to the world’s children, 9 of the 39 Junior 8 Summit delegates here boarded a bus yesterday to go to the site of the G8 Summit of world leaders.
Junior 8 Summit delegates use online workspace to advance their viewpoints
CHITOSE CITY, Hokkaido, Japan, 6 July 2008 - Every evening after dinner they begin to congregate in the dimly lit lobby of the hotel. Small groups of teenagers sit with their laptops open, their faces tinted blue by the computer screens, typing busily as a collective ‘click-click’ fills the room.
Young delegates’ hopes are high as ‘Junior 8’ Summit opens in Japan
HOKKAIDO, Japan, 3 July 2008 – The Junior 8 Summit opened yesterday with thunderous performance by young local drummers at a traditional ceremony in Hokkaido, Japan. The meeting brings together a group of children and young people who promise to make an even bigger noise on the world stage.
Indigenous youth make their voices heard at global caucus
NEW YORK, USA, 2 June 2008 – At the seventh session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, held in New York in April, the youngest generation of indigenous people around the world came together as one body to highlight the problems they face.
DHL partners with UNICEF to promote ‘11 Commitments for Children’ in Angola
LUANDA, Angola, 22 May 2008 – Today marked the launch of a national partnership between UNICEF and DHL in Angola to promote child survival, development, education and protection.
UNICEF Iran Representative urges a deeper understanding of Islam to fight poverty
NEW YORK, 30 April 2008 – UNICEF Representative in Iran Christian Salazar has called for a deeper understanding of Islam to more effectively fight poverty in Islamic nations. He told an international conference in New York last week that while Iran has successfully tackled poverty in recent decades, disparities in income remain.
On World Malaria Day, new goals for prevention and treatment announced
NEW YORK, USA, 25 April 2008 – A bold initiative announced today by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon brings together the many forces fighting malaria to focus on one goal: providing universal coverage of malaria-control measures in Africa, where 90 per cent of malaria cases occur, by the end of 2010.
‘Rethinking Poverty’ conference cites risks to children posed by rising global insecurity
NEW YORK, USA, 22 April 2008 – Participants in an international conference here have been told that global uncertainty and an increase in terrorism and violence will lead to an increase in the number of people – including children – living in poverty.
Symposium on poverty recommends child-sensitive social protection in South Asia
DHAKA, Bangladesh, 21 April 2008 – Policy makers and experts from eight countries met in Dhaka last week for a symposium to address poverty. The symposium focused on how expanded social protection could serve as a strategy to transform social policy and reduce economic and social vulnerability, especially for children.
Countdown to 2015: MPs join call to boost maternal and child survival
CAPE TOWN, South Africa, 18 April 2008 – ‘Countdown to 2015’, a report on maternal, newborn and child survival, was released at the 118th annual Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) assembly in Cape Town this week, followed by a three-day conference where over 500 participating global health experts and Members of Parliament were urged to accelerate efforts to reach Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5 on child and maternal survival.
Parliamentarians lead change for mothers and children
CAPE TOWN, South Africa, 18 April 2008 – Parliamentarians from all over the world showed their support this week as more than 200 Members of Parliament gathered in Cape Town for the 118th assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and a joint UNICEF-IPU panel on maternal, newborn and child health.
David Beckham urges children to use Junior 8 Summit to make their voices heard
LONDON, United Kingdom, 20 March 2008 – UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador David Beckham has called on young people to take part in UNICEF’s Junior 8 Summit, a young person’s version of the annual G8 meeting of world leaders. Beckham called on 13- to 17-year-olds in G8 nations to enter the competition for a chance to represent their countries at the J8 Summit in Japan.
UNICEF makes its mark in 3 of 10 Yahoo! ‘Inspirations’ for 2007
NEW YORK, USA, 31 December 2007 – The Yahoo! News ‘Year in Review’ has cited 10 top stories from 2007 “that bring cause for optimism and hope.” And in 3 of these 10 Yahoo! ‘Inspirations’, UNICEF played a key part.
UN meeting highlights innovative programmes that spread from south to north
NEW YORK, USA, 27 December 2007 – Uganda, Mexico and Brazil presented innovative grassroots programmes for improving child rights at the United Nations during a recent UNICEF-organized seminar, which for the first time looked at how northern nations can learn from those in the south.
UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan receives National Friendship award
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, 14 December 2007 – UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan Reza Hossaini has been awarded a presidential order of National Friendship, or Do‘stlik.
UNICEF supports youth participation at climate change conference in Bali
BALI, Indonesia, 12 December 2007 – On the sidelines of the United Nations Climate Change Conference now under way in Bali, Indonesia, UNICEF has held a series of events to highlight the effects of global warming on children and to ensure that young people are involved in debate on this issue.
Youth Forum sets stage for ‘A World Fit for Children Plus 5’ UN meeting
NEW YORK, USA, 9 December 2007 – About 75 children from more than 50 countries met at UNICEF headquarters in New York today to prepare for a United Nations session on children’s rights this week.
Junior Eurovision Song Contest and EBU to raise awareness and funds for UNICEF
NEW YORK, USA, 4 December 2007 – The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and UNICEF have formed a unique partnership for the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2007, the biggest children’s music event in Europe.
New book, launched at UNICEF, examines legal framework for child rights
NEW YORK, USA, 20 November 2007 – A new guide examining various strategies for implementing the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in different legal systems worldwide was launched today at UNICEF House in New York.
UN task force unveils mental health guidelines for healing communities in emergencies
NEW YORK, USA, 20 November 2007 – The heavy burden of mental health and psychosocial needs in emergencies causes significant problems for children and families around the world. Until recently, however, no comprehensive mental health guidelines were available for field workers on the ground during emergencies.
Team Saatchi and UNICEF celebrate 18 years of children’s rights with new ad
NEW YORK, USA, 14 November 2007 – An entire generation of children has now lived its full 18 years of life under the protection of the CRC.
UNICEF and US Fund host World of Children 10th-anniversary awards
NEW YORK, USA, 8 November 2007 – Teresa Cheptoo, 16, a Kenyan youth activist and passionate opponent of female genital mutilation/cutting, was among eight individuals whose advocacy work was honoured today at the World of Children Awards.
Young ‘Peace Messengers’ from Yokohama support UNICEF
NEW YORK, USA, 30 October 2007 – Four young ‘Peace Messengers’ from Japan’s second largest city today presented UNICEF with a cheque for 17.3 million yen, or about $150,000.
UN Secretary-General hosts ‘Stand Up against Poverty’ event
NEW YORK, USA, 17 October 2007 – Hundreds of people gathered on the lawn of UN headquarters in New York today to join Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon in recognition of the 20th anniversary of the International Day of the Eradication of Poverty, and Stand Up against Poverty 2007.
A platform for young voices in the run-up to the Guatemalan elections
GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, 25 July 2007 – In September, Guatemala will hold their national elections, bringing a new president to the Central American country. The citizens are abuzz with their opinions on the various candidates. Now, one group of Guatemalans that isn’t often recognized at election time – 13 to 17 year olds – are making sure their opinions are heard as well.
Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman take the ‘Long Way Down’ to support landmine education
NEW YORK, USA, 24 July 2007 – Riding a motorcycle from Northern Scotland all the way to South Africa may not be the most expedient form of travel. But for Goodwill Ambassador Ewan McGregor and UNICEF supporter Charley Boorman, it is the trip of a lifetime – an adventure which is helping to raise funds and awareness for children.
Experimental apartment declared a successful alternative to orphanages
RUSTAVI, Georgia, 17 July 2007 - In a town that time seems to have forgotten, there is a building that hasn’t seen much care for years. But seven floors up, UNICEF helped renovate an apartment for an experiment that has already begun to change the lives of children in Georgia.
‘Empowering Hands’ for former child soldiers in Uganda
AMURU, Uganda, 16 July 2007 – Sarah is a former child soldier who was abducted by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) when she was seven years old. She did not return home until last year, at the age of 17, with the help of World Vision, a UNICEF implementing partner.
UN progress report urges new commitment to Millennium Development Goals
NEW YORK, USA, 2 July 2007 – Despite progress made at the halfway point to the deadline for achieving the Millennium Development Goals, the global MDG targets will be achieved only if more concerted action is taken immediately and is sustained until 2015 and beyond.
National Pact reaffirms Brazil’s commitment to 13 million children in impoverished areas
BRASILIA, Brazil, 27 June 2007 – The lives of 13 million children living in Brazil’s impoverished semi-arid region were the focus yesterday during the signing of the second National Pact entitled, ‘A world fit for children and adolescents in the Brazilian semi-arid’.
In South Africa, FC Barcelona and friendly rivals score new goals for children
PRETORIA, South Africa , 22 June 2007 – There was Spanish flamenco dancing, African drumming and the unique trumpeting of the South African ‘vuvuzela’ or air horn – called football’s beautiful noise here.
Parliamentarians in Republic of Korea support UNICEF and ‘A World Fit for Children’
SEOUL, South Korea, 19 June 2007 – A new group, the Korean Parliamentarian Friends of UNICEF, has been established in Seoul to further advance efforts on behalf of the world’s children and to strengthen the partnership between UNICEF and the Republic of Korea.
Online and off, UNICEF’s Innocenti Research Centre extends its reach
FLORENCE, Italy, 5 June 2007 – The UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre (IRC) in Florence was established in 1988 as a centre of reflection and study on sensitive and emerging issues affecting children. It plays a critical role in strengthening UNICEF’s work around evidence-based knowledge.
J8 Summit opens in Germany
WISMAR, Germany, 3 June 2007 – Young people from Group of 8 industrialized countries and the developing world, as well as German federal and state government officials, have gathered here for the official opening of the Junior 8 Summit – the international youth conference with an agenda that parallels the G8 Summit.
Young people gather to debate global issues at Junior 8 Summit in Germany
NEW YORK, USA, 1 June 2007 – Young people from Group of 8 industrialized nations and the developing world are gathering in Germany to participate in this year’s Junior 8 Summit. Mirroring the G8 Summit, which will be commenced on 6 June, the J8 is aimed at empowering young people to take part and voice their opinions in global affairs.
Children in Barbados have their say on development goals
BRIDGETOWN. Barbados, 30 May 2007 – With the timeline for meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) drawing closer, Barbadian teenagers recently had the opportunity to question their government leaders about what was being done to ensure that Barbados reaches the goals – especially MDG 1 on eradicating extreme poverty and hunger.
Global consultation looks to beefing up UNICEF programme communication
NEW YORK, USA, 22 May 2007 – When you think about public campaigns to get people to do things differently, is it the message or the messenger that most catches your attention? It’s hard to find anyone now who hasn’t heard about the harmful effects of tobacco or, say, the importance of washing your hands with soap.
Child-friendly budget forum in Kazakh Parliament addresses local needs
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, 18 April 2007 – A UNICEF-initiated conference focusing on child-friendly local and national budgeting was held last week at the national Parliament here in Kazakhstan’s capital.
Micro-financing empowers women and changes lives in Togo
AGOKPAME, Togo, 28 March 2007 – The women in a coastal village on the Togo-Benin border are doing what they are known for – singing and dancing. But as the soothing tones and rhythms give way to the sounds of coins being dropped into a bowl, it becomes clear there is something else afoot.
UN Executive Boards complete mission to post-war Liberia
MONROVIA, Liberia, 7 March 2007 – After more than 14 years of civil conflict, Liberia is moving forward on the road to recovery.
UNICEF encourages national budget-makers to focus on human rights
NEW YORK, USA, 1 February 2007 – UNICEF hosted a gathering in New York this week to step up the international dialogue on converting national budgets and fiscal policies into instruments for the realization of human rights.
First children’s newspaper launched in Sierra Leone
FREETOWN, Sierra Leone, 18 December 2006 – In an effort to further promote child participation and ensure that the voices of children are heard in national discourse, UNICEF has helped launched ‘Pikin News’ (which translates as ‘Children’s News’), a newspaper developed and produced exclusively by children.
Deputy Executive Director talks women’s and children’s rights in the Middle East and Africa
NEW YORK, USA, 10 December 2006 – As UNICEF launches its flagship annual report, ‘The State of the World’s Children’ – which focuses this year on the links between women’s rights and children’s well-being – UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Rima Salah has just returned from an extensive field visit in which those links featured prominently.
UNICEF Joint Consultation with Gulf Countries
NEW YORK, USA, 29 November 2006 – UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Rima Salah and Director of Programme Funding Karin Hulshof hosted the first Joint Consultation Meeting with Gulf countries yesterday at the agency’s headquarters in New York.
Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus honoured at UN for fighting poverty
NEW YORK, New York, 22 November 2006 – Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus, founder of the Grameen Bank and the ‘microcredit’ principle, was honoured at the UN this week for his work to eliminate poverty and empower women worldwide.
Youth leaders speak out at African Development Forum
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, 16 November 2006 – The fifth African Development Forum kicked off today as hundreds of delegates, including young people from around the continent, arrived here in the Ethiopian capital to face tomorrow’s challenges.
UN Global Youth Leadership Summit energizes a new generation of activists
NEW YORK, USA, 1 November, 2006 – Nearly 400 young people gathered at UN headquarters this week for the Global Youth Leadership Summit, working together to help breathe life into the Millennium Development Goals – and returning to their countries with revitalized plans to address some of the worst scourges on the planet.
Muhammad Yunus, microcredit pioneer and UNICEF partner, awarded Nobel Peace Prize
NEW YORK, USA, 13 October 2006 – This year’s Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh, a pioneer in microcredit lending whose Grameen Bank has partnered with UNICEF on development projects benefiting vulnerable women and children.
UN interfaith conference promotes dialogue on International Day of Peace
NEW YORK, USA, 26 September 2006 – On the International Day of Peace, religious leaders around the world gathered at UN headquarters to promote a key element for peace-building and development – interfaith dialogue.
UNICEF Executive Director: Girls’ education vital for developing world
NEW YORK, USA, 25 September 2006 – More than half of all children who do not go to school are girls. Achieving universal primary education is a Millennium Development Goal and one of UNICEF’s primary objectives.
‘Religions for Peace’ Youth Assembly opens in Japan to promote non-violence
NEW YORK, USA, 21 August 2006 – More than 300 young religious leaders from countries around the globe have gathered in Japan this week to promote peace and reconciliation.
‘Junior 8’ delegates present youth concerns in historic meeting with G8 leaders
PUSHKIN, Russia, 17 July 2006 – History was made yesterday the Konstantin Palace in the St. Petersburg suburb of Strelno, when delegates from the ‘Junior 8’ Youth Forum met with their nations’ leaders gathered in Russia for the G8 summit.
‘Junior 8’ delegates meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin
PUSHKIN, Russia, 14 July 2006 – Russian President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to meet with delegates at the Junior 8 Youth Forum outside St. Petersburg today, catching the participants in the middle of a video conference with youths in Cairo.
At Junior 8 Youth Forum, delegates strategize to put intolerance in check
PUSHKIN, Russia, 13 July 2006 – UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and chessmaster Anatoly Karpov visited the Junior 8 summit here yesterday to speak with youth delegates about intolerance and his work fighting iodine deficiency among children.
‘Junior 8’ delegates prepare for meeting with G8 summit leaders
PUSHKIN, Russia, 13 July 2006 – Inside the Junior 8 Youth Summit here, 64 young leaders are debating and discussing the recommendations they will deliver to G8 leaders on 16 July.
‘Junior 8’ Youth Forum opens in Russia
PUSHKIN, Russia, 10 July 2006 – With the goal of influencing world leaders, 64 young people from G8 member countries today opened the ‘Junior 8’ Youth Forum, or J8, in Pushkin, near St. Petersburg, Russia.
‘Junior 8’ delegates arrive in Russia for youth summit
PUSHKIN, RUSSIA, 7 July 2006 – Sixty-four youth delegates from G8 member countries have gathered here to debate and agree on a set of recommendations to give world leaders, ahead of the upcoming G8 summit in St. Petersburg.
‘Junior 8’ Youth Forum prepares to meet during G8 summit in St. Petersburg
NEW YORK, USA, 5 July 2006 – In the run-up to the G8 meeting, as government leaders fine-tune their agendas and prepare for the annual international forum, adolescents from the G8 countries are getting ready for a forum of their own.
UNICEF at Oxford: Education experts to confer on reaching children in conflicts
NEW YORK, USA, 10 April 2006 – Around the world approximately 115 million children are out of school. At least half of those children live in countries affected by conflict, while many others are excluded from the basic right to an education because of natural disasters and other crises.
Global Partners Forum pledges action on children and AIDS
LONDON, UK, 10 February 2006 – Partners in the struggle to help children affected by HIV and AIDS wrapped up a two-day meeting pledging to do more and do it better.
Children still missing from the world’s response to HIV/AIDS, Global Partners Forum told
LONDON, UK, 9 February 2006 – Twenty-five years after the first case of AIDS was discovered, children are still missing from the world’s response to the global crisis, UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman told the Global Partners Forum.
Public policy debate focuses on achieving results for children
NEW YORK, USA, 24 January 2006 – Focusing on public policy to help fulfil children’s rights is an important part of UNICEF’s work everywhere. Today at UNICEF headquarters, a debate on public policy and results for children brought together Representatives from the Latin America and Caribbean region, programme and policy experts, communicators and others.
First Islamic Ministerial Conference on the Child ends with landmark declaration
RABAT, Morocco, 9 November 2005 – The First Islamic Ministerial Conference on the Child has concluded its historic two-day meeting with the issuance of a strong Declaration, calling for an end to harmful traditional practices, elimination of gender disparity in education, and urgent action to address the unacceptably high rates of child and maternal mortality in some Islamic countries.
Landmark meeting on children of the Islamic world
RABAT, Morocco, 7 November 2005 – Representatives of over 50 Islamic countries today opened a landmark conference on children’s issues. The conference seeks to provide a foundation for real and lasting progress for the 600 million children – more than a quarter of the world’s child population – who live in Islamic countries.
Groundbreaking Islamic conference on children
NEW YORK, USA, 3 November 2005 – The world is home to 2 billion children. More than a quarter of them – some 600 million girls and boys – live in Muslim countries, where children make up more than 40 per cent of the population.
Investing in children in the Islamic world
NEW YORK, 21 September 2005 – A landmark joint report launched today gives a unique insight into the opportunities and challenges facing 600 million children across the Islamic world.
Young people at C8 children’s summit insist world leaders listen
EDINBURGH, Scotland, 8 July 2005 – A select group of children from Bhutan, Cambodia, Moldova, Yemen, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Lesotho and Bolivia and their counterparts from Russia, France, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom are heading home after attending UNICEF’s first-ever children’s summit, the C8 Children’s Forum, held in Dunblane and Edinburgh.
Scotland: C8 Children’s Forum draws to a close amid hopes of helping shape the future
DUNBLANE, Scotland, 5 July 2005—As G8 leaders gather in Gleneagles, Scotland, for their annual summit to discuss issues such as debt relief and increased aid to Africa, children from around the world were in the limelight during a summit of their own: the first ever C8 Children’s Forum in nearby Dunblane.
Scotland: UNICEF’s first-ever C8 Children’s Forum brings together young advocates from around the world
DUNBLANE, Scotland, 1 July 2005 – As G8 leaders prepare for their annual summit, to be held 6 July in Scotland, a group of young delegates are also gathering in the UK for a landmark meeting.
Presidents, prime ministers and children discuss global goals in Seoul
SEOUL, South Korea, 31 May 2005 - More than 5,000 participants from 130 countries gathered in Seoul, South Korea on 24-27 May, to consider better ways to implement the Millennium Development Goals at the grassroots level.
Child poverty takes centre stage at New York conference
NEW YORK, 27 April 2005 – Leading academics, policy makers and global experts gathered at the New School University from 25-27 April for a conference entitled ‘Children and Poverty: Global Trends, Local Solutions’.
UNICEF and New School University sponsor conference on ‘Children and Poverty: Global Trends, Local Solutions’
NEW YORK, 22 April 2005 – UNICEF and New York’s New School University are bringing together scholars, policy thinkers and global experts for a conference entitled ‘Children and Poverty: Global Trends, Local Solutions’, from 25-27 April 2005.
UNICEF supports report calling for more aid to Africa
NEW YORK, 11 March 2005 - UNICEF today welcomed the report produced by the UK-led Commission for Africa, which urges the international community, especially the rich nations, to immediately double their foreign aid to Africa.
UNICEF gathers world experts to discuss poverty and children
NEW YORK, 17 February 2005 - Poverty is one of the biggest threats to children across the globe. UNICEF brought together today some of the world’s most renowned economists to discuss how policies can be developed to address the effects of poverty on children.
