UNICEF launches new initiative to protect children from conflict and disaster

The United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has launched a new initiative to protect children from conflict and disaster, aiming to provide vital support to children affected by crises around the world.

Intensification of the global crisis

The world is facing an unprecedented crisis, with more than 80 million people displaced worldwide and millions more affected by natural disasters, conflicts and humanitarian crises. Children are disproportionately affected, and millions are forced to flee their homes, separated from their families and exposed to violence, abuse and exploitation.

New initiative: “Crisis Response Protection (PCR)”

To address this growing crisis, UNICEF is launching the Protection in Crisis Response (PCR) initiative, a comprehensive program designed to protect children from harm, provide essential support to families, and build a safer, more resilient future for the children.

Key elements of the RAP

The PCR initiative is structured around three key elements:

• Protection from violence, exploitation and kidnapping: UNICEF will provide emergency assistance to children affected by the conflict, including providing safe shelter, counseling and psychosocial support, as well as working to prevent the abduction and exploitation of children.
• Family support and unification: The initiative will prioritize family support and reunification, connecting separated children with their caregivers and providing counseling and therapeutic care to support family reunification.
• Community protection: UNICEF will engage with local communities, community leaders and partners to promote child protection standards, create safe spaces for children and strengthen local response and recovery capacities.

Beyond crisis response

While the RAP focuses on crisis response, it also addresses the root causes of fragility and promotes sustainable peace and development. This comprehensive approach recognizes that long-term peace and stability requires addressing the deeper social, economic and political causes of conflict.

Partnerships and financing

UNICEF partners with governments, non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders to support the PCR initiative, attracting funding from governments, foundations and private sector donors. The organization is also seeking support from the public, encouraging individual donations to help provide vital support to children in crisis.

To support the Protection in Crisis Response initiative, UNICEF is launching a global awareness campaign, showcasing poignant stories of children and families affected by conflict and disaster. The initiative urges individuals to share their own stories of resilience, hope and support for children affected by the crisis, using the hashtag #ProtectInCrisis.

By working together, we can protect children from the devastating effects of conflict and disaster, rebuild shattered lives and restore hope to the millions of children affected by crises around the world. Join the UNICEF family in this crucial effort to make a difference in the lives of children and families affected by the crisis.