THE PRACTICES OF UNICEF GOODWILL AMBASSADORS IN ADVOCATING CHILD PROTECTION IN ETHIOPIA (2007-2016)

Abstract

In the early time of its establishment, states tend to be skeptical about the existence of the United Nations. Particularly on how United Nations exercises its power which said to be costly, ineffective and bias. As an experienced person to be involve in the work of the Organization, Kofi Annan decided to rejuvenate the UN public relations strategy. This include an increase in the Organization’s engagement with renowned individuals which later known as Goodwill Ambassadors and Messengers of Peace. Along with the deployment of these individuals, Kofi Annan expects that it would increase public support and awareness towards UN causes. Portray a good image in the eyes of the people and raise UN credibility in the view of its member states. This thesis thereby explores the practices of Goodwill Ambassadors in advocating UNICEF issues particularly on child protection in Ethiopia. By presenting the evolution of UN public relations strategy and historically examining Ethiopia’s development, this thesis helps to explain how the United Nations exercises its power.