Q.Highlight any two functions of UNICEF which make it a significant part of the United Nations.

International organisations emerged from the recognition that many of the world's most pressing problems—war, poverty, disease, environmental degradation—do not respect national borders. The United Nations, founded in 1945 after the devastation of two world wars, embodies the principle that countries are stronger when they work together than when they act in isolation.

The first major advantage is that these organisations create a forum for peaceful negotiation and conflict resolution. When tensions rise between nations, the UN provides neutral ground where diplomats can meet, talk, and search for solutions without resorting to violence. The Security Council can authorise peacekeeping missions to prevent conflicts from escalating, while the General Assembly gives every member state—regardless of size or power—a voice in international affairs. This diplomatic infrastructure has helped prevent numerous disputes from turning into full-scale wars. Even when the UN cannot stop a conflict entirely, it often facilitates ceasefires, humanitarian corridors, and eventual peace agreements that would be far harder to negotiate without a trusted intermediary. …

The United Nations, established in 1945 after the devastation of World War II, represents humanity's most ambitious attempt to create a global forum for peace, cooperation, and the resolution of international disputes. Its strength does not primarily come from military might or economic power, but from its near-universal membership and the moral and political authority derived from representing the collective will of nations. This unique position allows it to address complex global challenges that no single nation or smaller alliance could effectively tackle alone.

The UN's strength is evident in its ability to provide a legitimate platform for dialogue, negotiation, and the formulation of international law. It acts as a crucial convener, bringing together diverse states to work towards common goals, thereby fostering a sense of shared responsibility for global issues. This collective approach is particularly powerful in two key areas: maintaining international peace and security, and coordinating humanitarian and developmental assistance.

Here are two examples illustrating the strength of the United Nations:

• Peacekeeping Operations: One of the most visible and impactful strengths of the UN is its capacity to deploy multinational peacekeeping forces. These "Blue Helmets" are sent to conflict zones around the world, not to fight wars, but to monitor ceasefires, stabilize post-conflict regions, protect civilians, and support the implementation of peace agreements. Unlike national armies, UN peacekeepers operate under a mandate from the Security Council, lending them a unique international legitimacy that helps de-escalate tensions and build trust among warring factions. Their presence often provides a crucial buffer, preventing renewed hostilities and creating space for political solutions. For instance, the UN Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) from 1999 to 2002 successfully oversaw the transition of East Timor to independence, establishing a stable environment, building state institutions, and organizing democratic elections. This comprehensive mission demonstrated the UN's strength in nation-building and conflict resolution, leveraging international cooperation to achieve a lasting peace. …

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) stands as a crucial pillar within the broader United Nations system, specifically dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of children globally. Its significance stems from its unique mandate and the comprehensive nature of its operations, which directly align with the UN's foundational goals of peace, human rights, and social development. Among its many vital roles, two functions particularly highlight its indispensable contribution.

One primary function that makes UNICEF a significant part of the United Nations is its global advocacy for children's rights. UNICEF serves as the leading international voice for children, tirelessly working to ensure that the rights of every child, as enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, are recognized, respected, and realized. This involves influencing governments, policymakers, and civil society organizations to adopt child-friendly policies and legislation. UNICEF champions issues such as the right to survival and development, protection from violence, abuse, and exploitation, and the right to education and participation. By consistently bringing children's issues to the forefront of international agendas, UNICEF ensures that the most vulnerable segment of the population is not overlooked in global development and humanitarian efforts. This advocacy role is critical because it provides a moral compass and a practical framework for nations to prioritize children's needs, thereby fostering a more just and equitable world for future generations.