Felix Schnyder facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Felix Schnyder
|
|
|---|---|
| Chairman of UNICEF | |
| In office 1960–1960 |
|
| Preceded by | John Ryan |
| Succeeded by | W. A. E. Green |
| United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees | |
| In office 1960–1965 |
|
| Preceded by | August R. Lindt |
| Succeeded by | Sadruddin Aga Khan |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 5 March 1910 |
| Died | 8 November 1992 (aged 82) |
| Nationality | Swiss |
| Profession | diplomat |
Felix Schnyder (born March 5, 1910 – died November 8, 1992) was a smart Swiss lawyer and a diplomat. A diplomat is someone who represents their country in talks with other countries. He played important roles in helping children and refugees around the world.
Contents
Who Was Felix Schnyder?
Felix Schnyder was a key figure in international efforts to help people. He was born in Switzerland in 1910. He spent his life working to make the world a better place. His work focused on two major global organizations. These were UNICEF and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
Felix Schnyder's Early Career
Felix Schnyder first studied law. After finishing his studies, he joined the Swiss diplomatic service in 1940. This meant he worked for the Swiss government. He helped represent Switzerland in other countries. He worked in important cities like Moscow, Berlin, and Washington D.C.. These experiences helped him understand global issues.
Helping Children with UNICEF
In 1958, Felix Schnyder became the Swiss Permanent Observer to the United Nations in New York. This role meant he was Switzerland's main representative at the UN. He was then chosen to join the UNICEF Executive Board. UNICEF stands for the United Nations Children's Fund. It is an organization that helps children all over the world. They work to provide food, medicine, and education. In 1960, he became the Chairman of UNICEF. This was a very important job. It meant he led the board that made big decisions for UNICEF.
Protecting Refugees with UNHCR
After his time at UNICEF, Felix Schnyder took on another vital role. From 1960 to 1965, he served as the third United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. This organization is known as UNHCR. Its main job is to protect and help people who have been forced to leave their homes. These people are called refugees. They might have fled war or other dangers. As the High Commissioner, Felix Schnyder worked to ensure refugees received help. He followed August R. Lindt in this role. His work helped many people find safety and new homes.
