UNICEF Day is observed on December 11, the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations Children's Fund in 1946. UNICEF works in more than 190 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, providing vaccines, clean water, nutrition, education and protection during emergencies. The day is a chance to learn about children's rights and support efforts to help children everywhere.
History of UNICEF Day
After World War II, millions of children in Europe and Asia faced hunger, disease and homelessness. On December 11, 1946, the UN General Assembly created the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund to provide emergency food and health care.
In 1953, UNICEF became a permanent part of the United Nations, and its name was shortened to the United Nations Children's Fund, though it kept the famous acronym. In 1950, children in Philadelphia began collecting coins for UNICEF while trick-or-treating, starting the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF tradition. UNICEF received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965.
UNICEF helped promote the Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted by the UN in 1989, which sets out the rights of every child to survival, education, protection and participation. Today, UNICEF helps deliver vaccines to a large share of the world's children and responds to emergencies from earthquakes to conflicts.
Why UNICEF Day Matters
Children are especially vulnerable during wars, disasters and disease outbreaks. UNICEF's work saves lives through vaccines, clean water and nutrition.
The day highlights children's rights, including education and protection from violence and exploitation.
It also shows how ordinary people, including children themselves, can help through fundraising, advocacy and awareness.
How to Celebrate UNICEF Day
- Learn about children's rights: read the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
- Donate: support UNICEF or another children's charity.
- Fundraise: organize a school or office collection.
- Share stories: learn about UNICEF's work in emergencies.
- Advocate: support policies that protect children.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, companies can organize a donation drive or matching gifts for children's charities. In classrooms, students can learn about children's rights around the world, compare daily life for kids in different countries, or run a coin drive. At home, families can talk about children's needs in other countries, choose a cause to support together, or read stories from around the world. Children often feel empowered when they help other kids.
Fun Facts About UNICEF Day
- UNICEF was created on December 11, 1946.
- Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF began in Philadelphia in 1950.
- UNICEF won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965.
UNICEF Day FAQs
When is UNICEF Day?
UNICEF Day is observed on December 11, the anniversary of UNICEF's founding in 1946.
What does UNICEF stand for?
Originally the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund; today it's the United Nations Children's Fund.
What does UNICEF do?
UNICEF provides vaccines, nutrition, clean water, education and protection for children worldwide.
Did UNICEF win a Nobel Prize?
Yes, UNICEF received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965.
What is Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF?
A Halloween fundraising tradition that began in Philadelphia in 1950.
How can I help UNICEF?
Donate, fundraise, volunteer or learn about and advocate for children's rights.