World Health Organization (WHO)

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 every year as World Health Day. Its predecessor, the Health Organization, was an agency of the League of Nations. The WHO is a member of the United Nations Development Group.

Structure

The World Health Organization is governed by member states through the World Health Assembly and the Executive Board. The WHO Secretariat is the operational arm of the organization, led by the Director-General.

Functions

The WHO'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 inefficiency and political bias.

See also

• Public health
• Epidemiology
• Global health

External links

• Official website