Bequest FAQ
Where will my gift be used?
Legacies provide UNICEF with vital funds for long-term planning and development. Donors often like to support the same themes or countries, perhaps due to somewhere they’ve visited on holiday. But in the longer term this could be detrimental to needy children in other parts of the world, especially those in countries that are rarely visited and not in the media. So legacy funds are allocated to wherever the need is greatest at the time.
How will you acknowledge my pledge?
We’re very keen to show our gratitude to you and provide you with updates about our work with children around the world, so we ask that you let us know if you are leaving a legacy to UNICEF.
Doesn’t the UN fund UNICEF?
No, it’s a common misconception that we’re funded by the UN. UNICEF is part of the UN family, which gives us enormous political influence, but we are funded by voluntary donations.
What’s the difference between UNICEF and other charities that work with children?
UNICEF is the only global organisation working specifically for children and children’s rights. Our position as part of the UN means we are uniquely placed to gain vital support from governments around the world. Our size and influence means we can and we do effect systemic change.
What about the possibility of my money ending up in the hands of corrupt regimes?
UNICEF has put many steps in place to safeguard against corruption. We carry out a great deal of local monitoring and will swiftly tackle local governments where corruption is suspected. Much of our work takes place at a local level, involving community groups and local organisations where corruption is much less of a problem. In addition, UNICEF’s support is channelled into specific projects using items that are of no real value or interest in the wrong hands, such as midwifery kits, baby scales, school supplies and building materials.
Will you co-work with other charities and local organisations in the field?
Yes, in a number of different situations. A common example is that a school will be built by the local community, UNICEF will provide the training, materials and support and a local organisation will provide the teacher’s salary. In any emergency we will work together with other charities and agencies, where different organisations take on specific responsibilities.
Why doesn’t UNICEF help needy children in Australia?
UNICEF is committed to meeting the needs of the world’s most vulnerable and marginalised children. Industrialised countries such as Australia usually have all the resources and knowledge to meet their children’s needs, and as our resources are limited we must spend them where they are needed most. UNICEF Australia does have a program, focusing on health care for Indigenous children in remote communities. Our Indigenous Australia Advocacy Program is funded by local trusts and foundations.
How do you avoid people becoming dependent on aid?
UNICEF’s ultimate aim is to help those in need to develop independence and self-reliance. Nobody wants to rely on aid; our field workers are continually motivated by the energy and determination of the people they’re involved with to take care of themselves and their children. We provide the resources, support and tools to help them do this, and in emergency situations we ensure we stay in place afterwards until the community is back on its feet, with plans and infrastructure in place for the long term.