In 1996, UNICEF's 50th anniversary year, the organization celebrated its achievements in saving and improving the lives of millions of children and women. At the same time, it took stock of the many lessons learned from a half century at the forefront of development. As a result of this assessment, UNICEF took several important measures to strengthen its work. It delineated its mission, placing the Convention on the Rights of the Child at its core; analyzed progress made in achieving the Year 2000 goals for children established at the 1990 World Summit for Children; took steps to decentralize its operations, making them more transparent, efficient and cost-effective, and increased opportunities for staff members to participate more fully in decision making and management. This annual report reviews the organization's activities during 1996. Following an overview by UNICEF's executive director, the report details the following topics: regional developments in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific regions, The Americas and Caribbean region, and central and eastern Europe. Highlights of the year are listed, followed by descriptions of the organization's communication activities, and partnerships with governmental and nongovernmental organizations around the world. UNICEF's resources and management are also detailed. The report concludes with an appendix describing major decisions made by UNICEF's executive board during 1996. (HTH)