UNICEF - Core Resources Annual Report 2024 Partner Recognition Companion

Core Resources Annual Report 2024

PARTNER

RECOGNITION

COMPANION

THE POW

ER BEH

IN D TH E PRO M ISE THE POWER BEHI ND T HE PROMISEIn a moment of profound global challenge, collaboration – across sectors and borders – delivers the most enduring progress for children . 2024 has tested the systems designed to protect children. Humanitarian needs have surged, resources have tightened, and the world’s most vulnerable communities face compounding risks. Yet, thanks to bold partnerships with governments, businesses, philanthropists, foundations and individuals, UNICEF has been able to stay, respond, and deliver. At the heart of UNICEF’s ability to act are Core Resources: flexible, reliable, unrestricted funding that enables UNICEF to reach children quickly, equitably and at scale – wherever and whenever the need is greatest. This Partner Companion celebrates the impact of these partnerships across the public and private sectors. It reflects the trust and vision of those who choose to invest in children, not only with funding but also with purpose. As part of a balanced funding portfolio, Core Resources work alongside earmarked resources to drive both immediate results and long-term systems change. Thematic funding – UNICEF’s geographic and sector-specific flexible funding – plays a vital role in this approach, enabling scale and sustainability in areas like nutrition, education, and WASH. Together, we accomplished more than any single sector or partner could achieve alone. Core Resources are a vital part of a donor’s portfolio and a key enabler of UNICEF’s work for children. They allowed us to respond quickly and equitably to overlooked emergencies, strengthen the systems that underpin children’s health, education and protection, and seize opportunities – not just respond to risks – in the moments that mattered most. We are deeply grateful to every partner who has stood with us. You have helped shape UNICEF’s ability to lead, adapt and deliver with impact and integrity. However, we are also realistic about what lies ahead. The challenges facing children today are complex and interconnected. Addressing them will require continued commitment, deeper alignment, greater flexibility and a shared determination to do what works.

to lead, adapt and deliver with impact and integrity. However, we are also realistic about what lies ahead. The challenges facing children today are complex and interconnected. Addressing them will require continued commitment, deeper alignment, greater flexibility and a shared determination to do what works. As we look to the future, we are also working to broaden our base of support for Core Resources. More countries with UNICEF programmes are now contributing financially to Core Resources or providing in-kind support. Encouragingly, private sector fundraising efforts in many of these countries are also growing, reinforcing national ownership and the power of local engagement. As we look ahead, we urge more governments and partners to step forward with financial contributions. Even modest investments send a powerful signal of national ownership, solidarity and commitment to shared results. We also thank governments that are meeting the benchmarks and commitments in the Funding Compact. UNICEF’s strength lies in its partnerships. With your leadership, we can build on what works, scale up what matters, and drive lasting progress – delivering, ultimately, on the power of our promise to children. Thank you for your trust, partnership and belief in a better future for every child, everywhere. From the Private and Public Sector Partnership Directors Carla Haddad Mardini Director, Private Sector Fundraising & Partnerships © UNICEF/UNI650987/Znidarcic Mandeep O’Brien Director, Public Partnerships Division © UNICEF/UNI673866/VoisardT ogether, we accomplished more than any single sector could achieve alone.What is the history of giving Core Resources (RR)? Have Core Resources always been a part of the investment in UNICEF? Ensuring appropriate and adequate funding of the United Nations Development System and of UNICEF is a key concern for Germany. Iin addition to the funding of UNICEF programmes, contributions to Core Resources have been an integral and important part of Germany’s funding of UNICEF for quite a number of years. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development has made

concern for Germany. Iin addition to the funding of UNICEF programmes, contributions to Core Resources have been an integral and important part of Germany’s funding of UNICEF for quite a number of years. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development has made core contributions since 2013, and their volume has increased at least tenfold since then. Does the government have a specific policy on contributing Core Resources? By contributing Core Resources to organizations of the United Nations Development System, Germany aims to signal trust in multilateralism and in the United Nations organizations. Germany welcomes the fact that the Funding Compact has been agreed to by consensus and strives to comply with its commitments. What qualities of Core Resources make it an attractive type of funding and why? Core contributions are essential for enabling organizations to fulfil their normative mandates, which should not rely on individual earmarked contributions or donors. Additionally, Core Resources are needed for quick interventions. We value the fact that UNICEF reacts very quickly in conflict and crisis situations, and we are grateful that UNICEF staff members often carry out the task of delivering for children in the most difficult circumstances, both workwise and personally. Moreover, core contributions are the foundation for ensuring the institutional functionality of the funds and programmes, and for guaranteeing necessary mechanisms of internal oversight, evaluation and impact control, as well as a good organizational culture. We value the investment UNICEF makes in order to base its programming on solid information and data, minimize risks, and ensure the quality of its work. And finally, there is a need for investment in innovative approaches in order to achieve greater impact and efficiency. Core funds are essential for this investment. Do you have any challenges justifying core resource funding with public constituents? Trust in UNICEF is solid in Germany. However, constituents and the members of the German Bundestag understandably expect reports on how contributions funded by German taxpayers have been used and whether they have created impact – an expectation that is less easy to fulfil in the case of Core Resources. Good and detailed reporting is essential. We therefore welcome this UNICEF report on the use of regular

members of the German Bundestag understandably expect reports on how contributions funded by German taxpayers have been used and whether they have created impact – an expectation that is less easy to fulfil in the case of Core Resources. Good and detailed reporting is essential. We therefore welcome this UNICEF report on the use of regular resources as an important communication tool. A public sector perspective on giving to Core Resources“UNICEF thanks the Government of Germany for being a deeply valued and long-standing partner – committed to both multilateralism and principled, flexible funding. We are grateful that Germany has steadily increased their contributions to core resources through 2024, reflecting trust in UNICEF’s ability to deliver results for children wherever and whenever the need is greatest. In an increasingly complex global environment, Germany’s investment in flexible resources sets a powerful example for how donors can drive lasting change. We are proud to work alongside the Government of Germany in pursuit of our shared vision: a world where every child fulfills their potential. ” Mandeep O’Brien , Director of Public Partnerships © UNICEF/UNI673866/VoisardThe funding compact outlines an ambitious, shared agenda between Member States and the United Nations development system to strengthen how the system is funded and delivers results. At its core is an understanding that effective multilateral action requires sufficient, predictable and flexible funding, bolstered by greater transparency and accountability. UNICEF thanks the governments of Belgium, Switzerland, Norway, Luxembourg, Sweden, and Australia that are meeting or exceeding the funding compact benchmark of investing 30 per centof funding as core resources to UNICEF. UNICEF calls on Member States to meet this important funding compact commitment so that the hard-won gains for children are protected, and UNICEF and partners can continue delivering results, for every child. Thank Y ou to Member States Meeting the Funding Compact Commitments “As long-standing partners to UNICEF, the Nordic countries are united in our commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of every child. We recognize that flexible, core resources are the backbone of UNICEF’s ability to deliver lasting results

Thank Y ou to Member States Meeting the Funding Compact Commitments “As long-standing partners to UNICEF, the Nordic countries are united in our commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of every child. We recognize that flexible, core resources are the backbone of UNICEF’s ability to deliver lasting results for children – where they are needed most, and when they are needed most. Our support to UNICEF’s core resources reflects our shared values and global priorities that include strengthening child protection systems, promoting gender equality, supporting children in humanitarian crises, and safeguarding the rights of all children, everywhere. Just as importantly, it reinforces the normative agenda that underpins UNICEF’s work – grounded in international human rights standards, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child. By investing in core resources, we help ensure that UNICEF remains a principled, effective, and agile organization, able to uphold its mandate in both development and humanitarian contexts. We are proud to partner with UNICEF in delivering on the promise of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and building a more just, inclusive, and resilient world for all children. ” Ministries for Foreign Affairs of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and SwedenA Public Sector Perspective on Giving to Core Resources “Spain remains a dedicated and long-standing partner of UNICEF, recognizing its crucial role in advocating for the respect, protection, and fulfillment of children’s rights. This commitment is more critical than ever, as UNICEF plays a key role in bridging development and humanitarian assistance to protect children in times of need. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 is a priority for Spain, and UNICEF is our ally in this endeavor, particularly in safeguarding the lives, education, health, and well-being of children. Spain is proudly committed to supporting UNICEF with Core Resources, enabling the agency to effectively deliver on its mandate. We are confident that other partners will take similar actions” “The Republic of Korea values UNICEF’s mission to protect and empower every child.

Spain is proudly committed to supporting UNICEF with Core Resources, enabling the agency to effectively deliver on its mandate. We are confident that other partners will take similar actions” “The Republic of Korea values UNICEF’s mission to protect and empower every child. As a country that rose through the power of education, we believe every child deserves a chance to learn, grow, and reach their full potential. In 2024 alone, our contributions to UNICEF exceeded $140 million, our largestever annual contribution to date. We more than tripled our Core Resources, reflecting our belief in UNICEF to respond swiftly to crises, invest in sustainable solutions, and reach the most marginalized children. We will continue to stand with UNICEF to make a meaningful difference for children – wherever they are. ” “At Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), we believe that investing in children is fundamental to building a just, resilient, and sustainable future. Our enduring partnership with UNICEF reflects our shared commitment to reaching the most vulnerable with timely, equitable, and effective responses, especially in times of crisis. Supporting this vital mission embodies our core values and belief in collective action. As QFFD continues to diversify its development finance instruments and scale innovative financing solutions, we are proud to work with high-impact partners like UNICEF to safeguard children’s rights across education, health, economic development, and food security, driving meaningful change for children and communities worldwide. ” Fahad Hamad Al-Sulaiti, Director General of Qatar Fund for Development Eva Granados, Secretary of State for International Cooperation Cho Tae-yul, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of KoreaANNEX 2: PARTNER RECOGNITION COMPANION CORE RESOURCES – FOR EVERY CHILD, EVERYWHERE ANNUAL REPORT 2024 10 “There’s no way I could have known to support that school. But UNICEF did.” – Kaia Miller Goldstein When Kaia and her family first considered giving to UNICEF, they were moved by the mission but

10 “There’s no way I could have known to support that school. But UNICEF did.” – Kaia Miller Goldstein When Kaia and her family first considered giving to UNICEF, they were moved by the mission but unsure how their contribution could make a tangible difference in such a vast, complex organization. Then they travelled to Rwanda. “What struck me most,” she recalls, “was the pride on those children’s faces. They were learning with computers, in classrooms filled with energy and hope. That’s when I realized – there’s no way I could have known to fund this school. But UNICEF did. They knew the community. They knew the need.” Kaia is part of the UNICEF International Council , a global community of philanthropists who partner closely with UNICEF to advance its mission. For many Council members, seeing UNICEF’s work in action marks a turning point. For Kaia, it was also a moment of realization: UNICEF’s work isn’t just about responding to emergencies – it’s about readiness, scale, and delivering for every child, even those no one hears about. Recently, several Council members came together for a candid conversation with Kieran O’Brien , UNICEF’s Chief of Global Philanthropy. Together, they reflected on their giving journeys and the growing case for unrestricted support. “Unrestricted funding saves lives. It’s that simple.” – Susan Boggio Throughout the conversation, Council members returned to a central truth: Core Resources enable speed, reach and impact that would otherwise be impossible . “I couldn’t bear to think of children waiting for help just because funding hadn’t yet been allocated,” said Susan. “These are life and death decisions. We need to be able to act immediately. That’s what Core Resources make possible.” Others described Core Resources as an investment in preparedness. Jono Goldstein, who once gave only to specific causes, now compares it to a fire truck: essential to have in advance because when the fire

We need to be able to act immediately. That’s what Core Resources make possible.” Others described Core Resources as an investment in preparedness. Jono Goldstein, who once gave only to specific causes, now compares it to a fire truck: essential to have in advance because when the fire hits, it’s too late to start shopping. Unlike many organizations, UNICEF already has operations in place . From pre-positioned supplies in global warehouses to negotiated access with governments and deep partnerships with communities, UNICEF can act fast because it is already there .

Giving Without Limits: Why UNICEF’s International Council champions Core Resources PARTNER PROFILEANNEX 2: PARTNER RECOGNITION COMPANION CORE RESOURCES – FOR EVERY CHILD, EVERYWHERE ANNUAL REPORT 2024 11 “Some of the greatest impacts aren’t measured in numbers. They’re measured in hope, dignity and opportunity.” – Tina Srowig Many Council members described their shift to unrestricted giving as a journey – one that deepens with understanding.

Most began with restricted support for causes close to their hearts, such as girls’ education or ending female genital mutilation. But over time, as trust grew, so did their recognition that Core Resources deliver broader impact . Tina reflected, “UNICEF gives children something to believe in. And that changes everything.” Council members echoed a key message: Core Resources are programme funding. They are what deliver results in the field. From health to education, clean water to child protection, they ensure vital programmes – often overlooked by earmarked funding – continue to deliver results where they’re needed most. As Kaia put it, “Some programmes are more exciting to donors. But UNICEF also registers births, supports legal identity and protects children from abuse. These aren’t headline-grabbing, but they’re essential.” It’s not either / or . Y ou can still fund what you’re passionate about.” – Susan Boggio Council members spoke passionately about the value

supports legal identity and protects children from abuse. These aren’t headline-grabbing, but they’re essential.” It’s not either / or . Y ou can still fund what you’re passionate about.” – Susan Boggio Council members spoke passionately about the value of a portfolio approach, blending targeted giving with unrestricted support. “You don’t have to choose,” Susan explained. “We give both restricted and unrestricted support. I trust UNICEF to know where the most critical needs are. But I also want to support the issues that matter to me.” Think of it like any smart investment strategy. Targeted giving is like investing in a company you believe in. Unrestricted giving is like investing in the entire market. One brings focus. The other brings strength, reach and resilience. This approach resonates deeply with Council members. It allows donors to stay connected to the causes closest to their hearts while supporting the broader foundation that keeps UNICEF operating across more than 190 countries and territories. “Some of your gift goes where you choose. Some goes where it’s needed most,” said Kaia. “And together, it has more impact.”The momentum is real From 2019 to 2024, the UNICEF International Council has more than tripled in membership and doubled its income. At the same time, commitment to unrestricted support is accelerating. In 2024, Council giving totalled $53 million, with 15 per cent supporting Core Resources , up from just 5 per cent the year before. The numbers tell a story. This isn’t just a funding model, it’s a movement . “UNICEF builds systems that outlast emergencies.” – Tina Srowig Looking ahead, Council members emphasized that flexible funding doesn’t just protect progress, it prepares UNICEF for what’s next . “We don’t know where the next crisis will hit,” said Kaia. “But we do know children will bear the brunt of it. Core Resources are what allow UNICEF to pivot quickly, strengthen systems, and help governments build lasting change.”

it prepares UNICEF for what’s next . “We don’t know where the next crisis will hit,” said Kaia. “But we do know children will bear the brunt of it. Core Resources are what allow UNICEF to pivot quickly, strengthen systems, and help governments build lasting change.” Tina added, “UNICEF partners with governments to improve laws and services. That means children are protected not just during a crisis, but long after. That’s the kind of change we need.” No one wants to give without lasting impact. Council members believe in effectiveness; in building systems that empower governments, reduce dependency, and make UNICEF’s support less necessary over time. They see their investment as one in self-reliance – in systems that outlast emergencies and deliver results that endure. “Flexible funding is what turns ‘For Every Child’ from a tagline into a reality .” – Jono Goldstein These philanthropists don’t see flexible giving as a leap of faith. They see it as the smartest way to deliver results across regions, sectors and generations. But they also know what happens when flexible funding falls short. “When these funds run dry, programmes close. Youth centres shut down. Children are turned away,” said Kaia. “That’s not a future we’re willing to accept.” The message is clear. Flexible funding protects progress. It reaches those left behind. And it’s the only way to truly deliver for every child .ANNEX 2: PARTNER RECOGNITION COMPANION CORE RESOURCES – FOR EVERY CHILD, EVERYWHERE ANNUAL REPORT 2024 13 Unlocking the power of music for children UNICEF has pioneered a groundbreaking approach to fundraising: securing donations of intellectual property (IP) rights from the music industry. Through this innovative model, artists, creators and rights holders can donate royalties from their songs directly to UNICEF, generating a powerful, long-term source of funding for children worldwide. Every time a donated song is streamed, purchased or played, UNICEF receives revenue – creating a

Through this innovative model, artists, creators and rights holders can donate royalties from their songs directly to UNICEF, generating a powerful, long-term source of funding for children worldwide. Every time a donated song is streamed, purchased or played, UNICEF receives revenue – creating a predictable stream of Regular Resources. This flexible funding allows UNICEF to respond wherever children’s needs are greatest, whether restoring clean water after disasters, delivering vaccines to remote communities, or supporting education programmes in crisis zones. The model builds on a legacy of music-driven philanthropy. In 1971, Ravi Shankar and George Harrison organized The Concert for Bangladesh, which raised more than $1 million in funds, and global awareness for the humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan/Bangladesh at the time, and which to support humanitarian work globally. In 2024, the Concert for Bangladesh – the GRAMMY ® Award-winning album by George Harrison, Ravi Shankar and friends – was made available for streaming across all major digital platforms for the first time. Thanks to the George Harrison Fund for UNICEF, all net proceeds from the album’s streams are now also supporting UNICEF’s life-saving work – not only in Bangladesh, where children continue to face the impacts of conflict and instability, but wherever children are most at risk. Since 1971, UNICEF has received over $53 million in royalties from iconic artists including ABBA, BTS, Fleetwood Mac, Jon Batiste, Rod Stewart and many more – helping to ensure that music’s power to inspire also powers real, lasting change for children everywhere.

PARTNER PROFILE

Musicians’ Perspective on Giving to Core Resources Scan the QR code or click on the image to listen to the concert for Bangladesh now, and help mobilize Core Resources for children! © UNICEF/UNI567016/Truong Viet Hung

PARTNER PROFILE

Musicians’ Perspective on Giving to Core Resources Scan the QR code or click on the image to listen to the concert for Bangladesh now, and help mobilize Core Resources for children! © UNICEF/UNI567016/Truong Viet Hung

© UNICEF/UN7542846ANNEX 2: PARTNER RECOGNITION COMPANION CORE RESOURCES – FOR EVERY CHILD, EVERYWHERE ANNUAL REPORT 2024

14

PARTNER PROFILE

UNICEF NextGen: Mobilizing the Next Generation of Changemakers NextGen is more than a network – it’s a movement.

Across the world, young philanthropists, investors, creatives and advocates are coming together to power UNICEF’s mission. Since its launch in 2009, UNICEF NextGen has raised and influenced more than $78 million in support of programmes that protect and empower children. With chapters in six countries, NextGen members contribute in diverse and dynamic ways, from fundraising and advocacy to building bridges with family offices, companies and philanthropic networks. What unites them is a shared belief that collective action can drive lasting, global change. As this community has grown, so has its ambition. What began as individual projects has evolved into something more strategic and sustainable. Today, NextGen chapters in Austria , Italy , and the USA are advancing a deeper commitment to Core Resources, the unrestricted funding that underpins UNICEF’s ability to scale up, adapt, and deliver results for children across every context. Each chapter determines its annual Core Resources investment based on member priorities, values and alignment with UNICEF’s broader mandate. This is the portfolio approach in action, putting flexibility and partnership at the centre of giving. In Austria, half of all contributions, including membership dues, will be allocated to Core Resources. In Italy, every monthly pledge and all contributions below €150,000 are now directed to Core Resources. In the USA, monthly giving and online campaigns

flexibility and partnership at the centre of giving. In Austria, half of all contributions, including membership dues, will be allocated to Core Resources. In Italy, every monthly pledge and all contributions below €150,000 are now directed to Core Resources. In the USA, monthly giving and online campaigns default to core resource contributions, embedding flexibility into everyday philanthropy. Together, these contributions show how the next generation is not just participating – they’re leading. They’re choosing to fund the systems that last, not just the projects that start. And they’re helping UNICEF reach the children and communities most often left behind. NextGen’s Perspective on Giving to Core Resources

© UNICEF/UNI715236/NazirANNEX 2: PARTNER RECOGNITION COMPANION CORE RESOURCES – FOR EVERY CHILD, EVERYWHERE ANNUAL REPORT 2024

15

Beyond Metrics: Why unrestricted Funding is the missing link for environmental, social and governance (ESG) impact How can companies meet growing expectations for precision in ESG reporting while also supporting flexible investments that future-proof communities?

This is the paradox at the heart of today’s sustainability landscape – one that UNICEF is uniquely positioned to help solve. UNICEF’s Core Resources, our most flexible and unrestricted funding, allow us to invest in the systems that deliver long-term value. They are not tied to a single project or emergency, yet they enable real-time response, systems strengthening and measurable results in more than 150 countries and territories. They support work across multiple sectors, and connect development outcomes that might otherwise be treated in isolation. Core Resources address interconnected weaknesses across systems, and underpin progress towards 12 of the 17 SDGs. This matters now more than ever . Yet ESG frameworks such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) often struggle to reflect the true value of this kind of

progress towards 12 of the 17 SDGs. This matters now more than ever . Yet ESG frameworks such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) often struggle to reflect the true value of this kind of systemic investment. These frameworks have made corporate accountability more robust, but their focus on material issues, key performance indicators (KPIs) and direct attribution to results can make it difficult to recognize contributions that are not narrowly attributed, but rather are broadly transformational as part of achieving collective impact. Double materiality assessments help identify known risks. But they rarely prepare us for the unknown: global pandemics, climate-driven disasters and economic shocks . These do not always register on a balance sheet, yet they are where resilience matters most. UNICEF understands this tension between flexibility and reporting requirements. Through our Core Resources Report and companion publications, we provide clear, credible and consistent reporting, helping partners demonstrate the impact of their contributions, even when those contributions are unrestricted . Our results model is designed to measure the breadth and depth of systems-level impact. It tracks progress in both development and humanitarian contexts, and aligns to SDG targets. This gives partners confidence that their support is not only values-driven but also accountable and effective. UNICEF is proud to rank among the top 10 organizations globally for transparency, with a 99 per cent data publication rate under the International Aid Transparency Initiative. Our Transparency Portal, scorecards and reporting tools provide visibility on how investments are delivering results. This is impact you can stand behind . Unrestricted funding underpins long-term value. It enables companies to go beyond compliance and become catalysts for sustainable change. We encourage partners to reflect this in ESG narratives. Use CEO statements to champion systemic investment. Highlight UNICEF results as evidence of collective progress. Show what is possible when resilience and impact are part of the same strategy. Because real sustainability is built on trust,

encourage partners to reflect this in ESG narratives. Use CEO statements to champion systemic investment. Highlight UNICEF results as evidence of collective progress. Show what is possible when resilience and impact are part of the same strategy. Because real sustainability is built on trust, flexibility and purpose.A message from Sebastien Lyon As I begin my role as UNICEF’s Global Chief of Corporate Partnerships, I’m inspired by the bold action and growing ambition I see from corporate partners around the world. We believe the private sector holds immense power to shape a better future for children. That belief is stronger than ever, and it’s matched by