WIREDGOV

“In accepting the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of Unicef in 1965, Unicef’s second Executive Director, Henry Labouisse, said that “the welfare of today’s children is inseparably linked with the peace of tomorrow’s world.”  

Today, in a world of growing turmoil, his words still ring true. And they speak to us all. 

“For while a child born in 2015 has a far greater chance to survive and fulfil her potential than a child born in 1965, the welfare of far too many children today is jeopardized by conflict and crisis, deprivation and disadvantage. Many are seeing and experiencing things no child should ever face.  And in every society, far too many children are growing up deprived of all they need to grow up healthy and strong. 

“When we work in common cause to reach these children – to alleviate their suffering, to help them grow and learn – we are not only giving them a chance at having a future. We are giving them a chance at building a better future for themselves, their families and their societies. A generation of children not only able but willing to create stronger, more stable, peaceful societies. A generation healed, not hardened. “

Every child has the right to the quiet blessing of a normal childhood. Unicef has worked every day since we were honoured with the Nobel Peace Prize, as we will continue working every day, to advance that right for every child, everywhere. For this is the surest path to a future where peace is possible.” 

Notes for editors:

For further information please contact the Unicef UK Press Office on +44 (0)20 7375 6030 or media@unicef.org.uk

About Unicef

Unicef is the world’s leading organisation for children, promoting the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.  

Unicef UK raises funds to protect children in danger, transform their lives and build a safer world for tomorrow’s children.  As a registered charity we raise funds through donations from individuals, organisations and companies and we lobby and campaign to keep children safe. Unicef UK also runs programmes in schools, hospitals and with local authorities in the UK. For more information please visit unicef.org.uk