UNICEF is the driving force that helps build a world where the rights of every child are realized. We have the global authority to influence decision-makers, and a variety of partners at grassroots level to turn the most innovative ideas into reality. This makes us unique among world organizations, and unique among those working with the young. We believe that nurturing and caring for children are the cornerstones of human progress. UNICEF was created with this purpose in mind—to work with others to overcome the obstacles that poverty, violence, disease and discrimination place in a child’s path. We believe that we can, together, advance the cause of humanity. We advocate for measures to give children the best start in life, because proper care at the youngest age forms the strongest foundation for a person’s future. We promote girls’ education—ensuring that they complete primary education as a minimum—because it benefits all children, both girls and boys. Girls who are educated grow up to become better thinkers, better citizens, and better parents to their own children. We act so that all children are immunized against common childhood diseases, and are well nourished, because it is wrong for a child to suffer or die from a preventable illness. We work to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS among young people, because it is right to keep them from harm and enable them to protect themselves and others. We help children and families affected by HIV/AIDS to live their lives with dignity. We involve everyone in creating protective environments for children. We are present to relieve suffering during emergencies, and wherever children are threatened. Because no child should be exposed to violence, abuse or exploitation. UNICEF upholds the Convention on the Rights of the Child. We work to assure equality for all those who are discriminated against, girls and women in particular.