Putting the best interest of children, women and their communities at the centre
of public health emergency preparedness and response

Highlights
UNICEF works to safeguard the rights of children, women and their communities before, during and after public health emergencies. A long-term vision for Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (PHE-PR) is set out in a new UNICEF White Paper, “Putting the Best Interest of Children, Women and their Communities at the Center of Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response”. The whole-of society focus required for PHE-PR to be effective is set out through 9 key recommendations for the global community, which emphasize the role of front line workers and the importance of investing in and preparing WASH, public health, child protection and education systems. UNICEF is calling for all stakeholders to take decisive action to ensure that children’s rights are prioritized in PHE preparedness and response, including international treaties and financing.
