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UN Agencies
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WHO: Promoting global health and safety

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations dedicated to coordinating responses to international public health issues and emergencies. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, WHO has six regional offices and 150 field offices worldwide, working tirelessly to achieve its mission.

WHO’s purpose and functions:

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WHO’s purpose is to promote health and safety while helping the vulnerable worldwide. Its main functions include:

- Promoting the control of epidemic and endemic diseases

- Providing technical assistance to countries

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- Setting international health standards

- Collecting data on global health issues

- Serving as a forum for scientific or policy discussions related to health

History and mandate

Established on April 7, 1948, WHO formally began its work on September 1, 1948. Its official mandate is to promote health and safety, with a focus on helping the vulnerable worldwide. WHO's work includes publishing the World Health Report, which provides assessments of worldwide health topics.

Global impact

With its extensive network and expertise, WHO plays a vital role in promoting global health and safety. Its efforts have improved health outcomes, saved lives, and enhanced the well-being of people around the world.

 

UNICEF: Protecting Children's Rights and Providing Humanitarian Aid

The United Nations Children's Fund, known as UNICEF, is a global organisation dedicated to improving the lives of children and mothers around the world. Operating in 192 countries and territories, UNICEF provides humanitarian and developmental aid to those in need.

UNICEF’s mission and activities

UNICEF’s mission is to promote the rights and well-being of every child. The organisation's activities include:

- Providing immunisations and disease prevention

- Administering treatment for children and mothers with HIV

- Enhancing childhood and maternal nutrition

- Improving sanitation

- Promoting education

- Providing emergency relief in response to disasters

History and funding

Established in 1946 to provide relief to children and mothers affected by World War II, UNICEF has since expanded its mandate to address the long-term needs of children and women in developing countries. The organisation relies entirely on voluntary contributions from governments and private donors, with a total income of $8.37 billion in 2023.

Governance and impact

UNICEF is governed by a 36-member executive board that establishes policies, approves programs, and oversees administrative and financial plans. With its extensive network and expertise, UNICEF has made a significant impact on the lives of millions of children and families worldwide, working tirelessly to protect children's rights and provide humanitarian aid.

 UNESCO: Promoting global cooperation through education, science, and culture

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations dedicated to promoting world peace and security through international cooperation.

Mission and objectives

UNESCO’s mission is to advance peace, sustainable development, and human rights by facilitating collaboration and dialogue among nations. The organisation pursues this objective through five major programme areas:

- Education

- Natural sciences

- Social/human sciences

- Culture

- Communication/information

Key Activities

UNESCO sponsors projects that:

- Improve literacy and provide technical training and education

- Advance science and protect independent media and press freedom

- Preserve regional and cultural history and promote cultural diversity

- Establish and secure World Heritage Sites of cultural and natural importance

Governance and structure

UNESCO is governed by the General Conference, which meets biannually to set the agency's programs and budget. The organisation has 194 member states and 12 associate members, with 53 regional field offices and 199 national commissions worldwide.

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