UNICEF is driven by five core values, which act as the pillars guiding its operations: care, respect, integrity, trust, and accountability. These values ensure UNICEF remains the world's leading organization dedicated to children and young people.
The 5 Core Values of UNICEF Explained
These core values are not just words; they are actively integrated into UNICEF's daily work and strategic planning.
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Care: This signifies a deep concern for the well-being of every child and a commitment to alleviating suffering. UNICEF strives to provide assistance and support with empathy and compassion.
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Respect: UNICEF values diversity and acknowledges the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their background, culture, or circumstances. Respect informs how UNICEF interacts with communities, partners, and its own staff.
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Integrity: UNICEF operates with honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct. Maintaining integrity ensures that resources are used effectively and that trust is maintained with donors and stakeholders.
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Trust: UNICEF aims to build and maintain trust with the communities it serves, its partners, and the public. This requires open communication, reliability, and a consistent commitment to its mission.
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Accountability: UNICEF is accountable for its actions and decisions. This involves monitoring and evaluating programs, reporting on progress, and taking responsibility for outcomes.
Ensuring Core Values are Upheld
UNICEF has established a range of initiatives to ensure that these values form the foundation of all its operations. This includes training programs for staff, ethical guidelines, and mechanisms for reporting and addressing any violations of these core principles.