WHO founded UNICEF?

UNICEF was created by the United Nations General Assembly on 11 December 1946. It was not founded by one individual. UNICEF was established as the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund to provide emergency assistance to children affected by the Second World War.

When was UNICEF created?

UNICEF was established on 11 December 1946, shortly after the Second World War.

The organization was created because millions of children faced hunger, disease, displacement and other serious consequences of the war.

Its initial mission was humanitarian and emergency-focused: providing children with essential assistance regardless of which side their countries had taken during the conflict.

Who officially created UNICEF?

The United Nations General Assembly created UNICEF through Resolution 57(I).

This is why there is no single person who can accurately be described as the "founder of UNICEF." The organization was created through an institutional decision of the United Nations.

The original organization was intended to be temporary, but the continuing needs of children led to the expansion of its mandate.

What does UNICEF originally stand for?

The original full name was:

United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund

This is where the acronym UNICEF comes from.

In 1953, the organization's name was shortened to the United Nations Children's Fund, but the acronym UNICEF was retained because it was already widely recognized.

What did UNICEF originally do?

UNICEF initially concentrated on emergency relief for children in post-war Europe and China.

Its assistance included supplies and support related to children's immediate survival and health.

Over time, UNICEF's role expanded from emergency relief to long-term development and the protection of children's rights.

Is UNICEF part of the United Nations?

Yes.

UNICEF became a permanent part of the United Nations system in 1953.

Today it works in more than 190 countries and territories, cooperating with governments, NGOs, communities and other UN organizations.

What does UNICEF do today?

UNICEF's work now covers a wide range of issues affecting children, including:

• Child health

• Nutrition

• Education

• Immunization

• Water and sanitation

• Child protection

• Emergency response

• Children's rights

• Social policy

• Climate-related risks

The organization's mandate is focused on helping children survive, thrive and reach their full potential.

Was UNICEF always called the United Nations Children's Fund?

No.

This is an important historical distinction.

1946: United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund

1953: United Nations Children's Fund

The acronym UNICEF remained unchanged.

Conclusion

UNICEF was created by the United Nations General Assembly on 11 December 1946, rather than being founded by an individual. It began as an emergency fund for children affected by World War II and later developed into the permanent UN organization focused on children's rights and well-being.

References

UNICEF – History
UNICEF – Frequently Asked Questions
UNICEF – Who We Are