United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF)

Headquarters:	New York, USA
Website:	https://www.unicef.org/
Description:	UNICEF is the UN agency that looks after the rights of children.
Summary:	UNICEF has existed for 70 years and works across 190 countries and territories. It has the global authority to “influence decision-makers and the variety of partners at grassroots level to turn the most innovative ideas into reality.” Education is one of its pillars. Their stated belief is: “All children have a right to survive, thrive and fulfill their potential – to the benefit of a better world.”
Organization Type:	International Inter-Governmental Organization
Issue areas covered:	UNICEF pioneered the ‘Child-Friendly School (CFS)’ model in education. This is – in simple terms – a model where schools should operate in the best interests of the child. Educational environments must have appropriate physical, emotional and social conditions for learning. Learning environments must be a haven for children to learn and grow, with innate respect for their identities and varied needs. The CFS model promotes inclusiveness, gender-sensitivity, tolerance, dignity and personal empowerment. UNICEF also includes life skills. At present, ‘life skills’ do not include humane education/animal welfare education. It also includes nutrition, under its child survival pillar.
Key opportunities and dates for input:	None evident.
Requirements for participation:	UNICEF has civil society partnerships.
Advocacy Opportunities:
Advocacy for the inclusion of humane education/animal welfare education under Life Skills. Advocacy for the inclusion of sustainable nutrition.