The ED's visit is part of the organization's efforts to strengthen partnerships
Global law firm DLA Piper has hosted United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Executive Director Catherine Russell in its Auckland office.
Serving as the final stop of her tour of the Pacific, which included Vanuatu, Fiji, and Australia, Russell engaged in various partnership meetings with key stakeholders, a fireside chat with UNICEF Aotearoa Young Ambassadors, and a meeting with the UNICEF New Zealand Board and DLA Piper Country Managing Partner Laura Scampion.
“We have been honoured to welcome Catherine Russell, the Executive Director of UNICEF, to our Auckland office,” said Scampion.
“Her visit underscored the critical importance of advocating for the rights and well-being of children, especially in the Pacific region, which faces unique challenges due to climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic,” she added.
During their meeting, Scampion further shared what she had discussed with the executive director.
“Catherine’s insights into the work UNICEF is doing globally, and her focus on the Pacific, provided invaluable perspectives on how we can continue to support these efforts,” said Scampion.
Russell has been leading UNICEF since February 2022 and spearheading its efforts in promoting children’s rights and well-being. Her visit also marked the first visit of a UNICEF executive director to the Pacific Island countries.
Australia and New Zealand are key partners to the organization in the Pacific and globally. The visit to the region boosted advocacy regarding UNICEF’s role in mitigating the effects of climate change and focusing attention on fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“At DLA Piper, we are committed to our partnership with UNICEF and to making a tangible impact through our pro bono work and advocacy initiatives. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and contributing to their mission,” said Scampion.
Since 2013, DLA Piper has supported the organization through donations, such as $4 million for the promotion of justice for children, $13 million in pro bono legal services, and a fundraiser that raised money for child justice programmes.
