Deadline: 07-May-2026
UNICEF is inviting expressions of interest to strengthen health systems and services for children, adolescents, and mothers in Argentina. The initiative focuses on maternal and child health, adolescent well-being, and mental health through policy reform, system strengthening, and community-based interventions.
Overview
The UNICEF initiative aims to improve health outcomes, development, and well-being for children, adolescents, and mothers across multiple provinces in Argentina.
The programme supports policy strengthening, system improvements, and service delivery enhancements through collaboration with civil society and academic organisations.
Key Programme Focus Areas
1. Adolescent Health
- Sexual and reproductive health services
- Mental health support
- Prevention and early intervention strategies
2. Maternal and Newborn Health
- Emergency obstetric care
- Prenatal, childbirth, and postnatal services
- Reduction of maternal and infant mortality
3. Child Health and Early Development
- Early childhood development (ECD)
- Nutrition, stimulation, and family support
- Community-based child health promotion
4. Health Systems Strengthening
- Improving service quality and access
- Strengthening coordination across healthcare levels
- Enhancing system responsiveness
Key Challenges Addressed
Maternal and Infant Health Gaps
- Rising maternal and infant mortality rates
- Preventable neonatal and post-neonatal deaths
- Gaps in early detection and quality care
Mental Health Concerns
- Perinatal mental health issues (anxiety, depression)
- Increasing adolescent depression and anxiety
- Suicide as a leading cause of adolescent mortality
Systemic Barriers
- Inequalities in access to healthcare
- Weak coordination between services
- Limited implementation of existing policies
Key Concept: Health Systems Strengthening
Health systems strengthening involves improving policies, infrastructure, workforce, and service delivery to ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare for all.
Expected Outcomes
The initiative aims to achieve:
- Improved early childhood development services
- Strengthened perinatal mental health systems
- Enhanced adolescent mental health programmes
- Better quality of maternity care services
- Reduced infant mortality rates
- Stronger integration and continuity of care
Who Can Apply?
Eligible Organisations
- Civil society organisations (CSOs)
- Academic and research institutions
Role of Selected Organisations
Selected partners will:
- Support policy and system strengthening
- Develop tools, guidelines, and evidence
- Implement community-based interventions
- Build capacity among stakeholders
How the Initiative Works
Step-by-Step Approach
- Identify key health system gaps and priorities
- Collaborate with UNICEF and stakeholders
- Design and implement targeted interventions
- Strengthen local capacities and systems
- Develop tools, research, and policy inputs
- Monitor outcomes and improve service delivery
Why This Initiative Matters
This programme is important because it:
- Addresses critical health challenges across life stages
- Focuses on preventable causes of mortality
- Strengthens mental health systems
- Promotes equity in healthcare access
- Supports long-term development outcomes
It contributes to building a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposals lacking system-level impact
- Weak integration between health areas
- Limited focus on vulnerable populations
- Lack of measurable outcomes
Practical Tips
- Focus on integrated solutions across life stages
- Prioritise vulnerable and underserved groups
- Include strong monitoring and evaluation plans
- Align interventions with national policies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main goal of this initiative?
To strengthen health systems and improve outcomes for children, adolescents, and mothers.
2. Where is the programme implemented?
Across multiple provinces in Argentina.
3. Who can apply?
Civil society and academic organisations.
4. What are the key focus areas?
Adolescent health, maternal health, child development, and health systems.
5. Why is mental health included?
Because it significantly impacts overall well-being and long-term outcomes.
6. What outcomes are expected?
Improved services, reduced mortality, and stronger health systems.
7. Why is this initiative important?
It addresses systemic gaps and promotes equitable access to healthcare.
Conclusion
The UNICEF call for expressions of interest represents a comprehensive effort to improve health outcomes across Argentina by addressing critical gaps in maternal, child, and adolescent health. Through system strengthening and collaborative action, the initiative aims to create sustainable improvements in healthcare delivery and equity.
Organisations with strong technical expertise, community engagement capacity, and a focus on integrated solutions are well positioned to contribute to this transformative effort.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.