80 years of UNICEF activity marked by a humanitarian concert in Lisinsk

The 80th anniversary of UNICEF's operations marks a significant milestone in the organization’s long-standing commitment to children's rights worldwide. In Croatia, this historic occasion is being celebrated with a special humanitarian concert held at the Kultura Dom (KD) Vatroslava Lisinskog in Zagreb on November 9, 2026. The event, titled "80 Godina u Ritmu Nade," aims to honor the past while reinforcing the ongoing mission of protecting and supporting children globally. The concert will feature performances by some of Croatia’s most renowned artists, including Antonela Doko, Sanja Doležal & Vladimir Kočiš Zec, Davor Gobac, Jakov Jozinović, Eni Jurišić, Zorica Kondža, Vesna Pisarović, Marko Tolja, and Jasna Zlokić. These performers will collaborate with a top-tier orchestra led by producer Filip Gjuda, offering a unique musical journey through the country’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring influence on global efforts to improve children’s lives.

The concert serves as both a celebration and a fundraising initiative, with each ticket sold also acting as a donation to support UNICEF’s programs aimed at helping the most vulnerable children. This dual purpose underscores the organization’s ability to blend artistic expression with social responsibility, engaging the public in meaningful ways. Tickets are available at the Lisinski venue and online via their official website, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience interested in contributing to a cause that has been central to UNICEF’s work since its inception.

UNICEF’s presence in Croatia dates back to its founding, during one of the most unstable periods of modern history. Over the decades, the organization has played a crucial role in developing essential public services and institutions focused on maternal and child health, supporting vaccination programs, advancing the modern dairy industry, and establishing today’s Children’s Hospital in Klaićevo. Additionally, UNICEF has supported the creation of the Child Advocate Office, developed anti-violence programs in schools, established foster care systems and inclusive education initiatives, founded the first Human Milk Bank in Croatia, and implemented numerous support programs for children facing developmental challenges. It continues to provide emergency assistance in extraordinary situations such as floods, earthquakes, and pandemics, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to safeguarding children’s well-being.

Luisa Brumana, head of the UNICEF office in Croatia, emphasizes the importance of this anniversary as a call to reaffirm the commitment to children’s rights. She notes that despite many achievements, the challenges faced by children around the world continue to grow, making this celebration a renewed pledge to build a safer, more equitable future for all children. Her statement reflects the broader sentiment among UNICEF staff and partners who recognize the need for sustained advocacy and action to address evolving threats to children’s safety and opportunities.

The concert is also supported by high-profile patrons, including President of the Republic of Croatia Zoran Milanović and Mayor of Zagreb Tomislav Tomašević, highlighting the political and civic recognition of UNICEF’s contributions. Their involvement underscores the significance of the event not just as a cultural gathering but as a symbol of collective effort toward a common goal—improving the lives of children through collaboration, compassion, and shared vision.

As the date of the concert approaches, anticipation grows among fans and supporters alike, eager to witness the fusion of music and philanthropy in a setting that honors both tradition and progress. With its diverse lineup of performers and its alignment with UNICEF’s core values, the "80 Godina u Ritmu Nade" concert promises to be a memorable event that celebrates the legacy of a vital organization while inspiring continued engagement in the fight for children’s rights.