The World Health Organization

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. The WHO Constitution, which establishes the agency's governing structure and principles, states its main objective as "the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health."

History

The World Health Organization was established on 7 April 1948, a date now celebrated annually as World Health Day. The organization grew out of the international sanitary conferences, which convened in the 19th century to combat diseases such as cholera, yellow fever, and plague.

Structure

The World Health Organization is governed by member states through the World Health Assembly and the Executive Board. The Assembly is composed of representatives from WHO's member states and meets annually, while the Board is composed of members technically qualified in health and gives effect to the decisions and policies of the Assembly.

Functions

The World Health Organization's primary role is to direct and coordinate international health within the United Nations system. Its major tasks include combating diseases, especially key infectious diseases, and promoting the general health of the people of the world.

Criticism and Controversies

The World Health Organization has been subject to various criticisms and controversies throughout its history, including allegations of excessive concentration on lifestyle issues at the expense of combating infectious diseases, and accusations of being influenced by pharmaceutical companies.

See Also

• Public Health
• United Nations
• World Health Day
• World Health Assembly
• Executive Board

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