UNICEF rag doll exhibition calls for vaccination of children despite epidemic
Ljubljana, 4 May - The Nama department store in the centre of Ljubljana showcases unique handmade UNICEF rag dolls until 25 May, raising funds for the vaccination of children in developing countries. UNICEF Slovenia warns that coronavirus preventive measures should not stop the vaccination of children in less developed countries.
Ljubljana
UNICEF raises vaccination funds with rag doll campaign.
Photo: Tamino Petelinšek/STA
File photo
Through the annual rag doll exhibition, UNICEF Slovenia raises funds for the vaccination of children against diphtheria, measles, whooping cough, polio, tuberculosis, and tetanus, as these diseases still kill an estimated 1.5 million children every year.
The handmade dolls were created by Slovenian artists to mark the World Immunization Week 2021. This year, it took place from 24 to 30 April under the motto "Vaccines bring us closer together".
Although the importance of vaccines has been recognized during the vaccination campaigns against Covid-19, UNICEF Slovenia says that preventive measures against the spread of the new coronavirus should not stop children in less developed countries from being vaccinated against other illnesses.
With a donation of EUR 20, the cost of one doll, a donor can save a child's life. A more substantial donation means more lives saved, so special creations by Slovenian artists are also available with a donation of EUR 100.
The dolls will be on display until 25 May, when they will be sent to the donors who "adopted" them.
The UNICEF rag doll project is one of the most popular charity projects in the country. Running since 2003, the project has saved more than 20,000 lives, according to UNICEF Slovenia. It also contributes to UNICEF vaccinating almost half of all children under five years old each year.