Statement: UNICEF Executive Board

Statement by H.E. Anna Jóhannsdóttir,
Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations,
UNICEF Executive Board
Second Regular Session
1 September 2026

Mr. President,

Thank you for giving me the floor.

Madam Executive Director,

I would like to begin with congratulating UNICEF on its upcoming 80th anniversary. During this time the organization has achieved remarkable results for the world’s children, their health, well-being and future opportunities. At the same time UNICEF has been present on the ground in some of the most demanding crisis around the globe. We extend our heartfelt thanks to UNICEF’s staff that has consistently delivered for children for the past 80 years.

At this important milestone the organisation is faced with some pressing challenges in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, coupled with a shrinking and more restrictive funding base. The decline in public sector regular resources is deeply concerning and risks seriously reducing UNICEF’s operability and ability to respond where it is most needed. Therefore, Iceland remains committed to maintaining the level of its core and thematic contributions.

Noting the increased importance of private sector contributions, we encourage UNICEF to continue its efforts in diversifying the funding base and exploring innovative financing options. Iceland also acknowledges the critical role of UNICEF’s national committees. We are thankful for the efforts of the national committee in Iceland as well as the remarkable and continued commitment of the Icelandic people to support UNICEF’s work.

Madam Executive Director,

It is vital that UNICEF seizes the opportunities brought by the UN80 reform agenda so the organization can continue to deliver effectively on its mandate. Iceland appreciates the steps already taken and the regular updates provided. These steps are critical when operating in an increasingly complex context. Recent example of this complexity is the exponential growth of AI, and we welcome the leadership that UNICEF has shown in ensuring children’s rights in the digital world.

Iceland also welcomes UNICEF’s active engagement with the humanitarian reset and the focus on localization, both as it relates to strengthening the role of national Governments and in building capacity of local civil society. With its dual mandate UNICEF plays an important role in building local resilience and supporting communities’ ability to both respond to crisis and to develop sustainable solutions.

I thank you.