World Health Organization (WHO)
Founded on April 7, 1948 (celebrated annually as World Health Day), the WHO is the directing and coordinating authority for health within the United Nations system. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
Key Functions
| Domain | Scope of Work |
|---|---|
| Standard Setting | Developing international norms, standards, and guidelines for disease control and health metrics. |
| Coordination | Leading global responses to Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEIC). |
| Technical Support | Assisting member nations in strengthening their health systems and workforce capacities. |
Organizational Structure
- World Health Assembly (WHA): The supreme decision-making body, meeting annually in Geneva.
- Executive Board: Composed of 34 health-technically qualified members; facilitates WHA policies.
- Secretariat: The administrative body headed by the Director-General.
- Regional Offices: Six regional offices (e.g., SEARO in New Delhi) to decentralize activities and address region-specific health challenges.
High-Yield Exam Pearl:
- WHO Definition of Health: “A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
- Regional Offices: There are 6 regional offices globally—remember the **SEARO (South-East Asia Regional Office)** is based in New Delhi, India.