What is WHO?

Dedicated to the well-being of all people and guided by science, the World Health Organization (WHO) leads and champions global efforts to give everyone, everywhere an equal chance at a safe and healthy life.

Since 1948 we have been the United Nations’ specialized health agency connecting nations, partners and communities working to promote the highest attainable standard of health for all people, regardless of race, religion, gender, political belief, economic or social condition.

Today, we work with 194 countries and on the front lines in 150+ locations – leading the world's response to health emergencies, preventing disease, addressing the root causes of health issues and expanding access to medicines and health care.

Our aim is to help countries in attaining the triple billion targets by 2023. The targets include one billion more people benefitting from universal health coverage, one billion more people better protected from health emergencies, and one billion more people enjoying better health and well-being.

Our mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.

What is the World Health Assembly?

WHO is comprised of the World Health Assembly, Member States and the Secretariat. The World Health Assembly (WHA) is the main governing body of the WHO comprising of 194 Member States. Every year, delegates from all Member States come together to agree on the Organization’s priorities and policies.

At the Assembly, new health goals and strategies are set, and tasks are assigned in order to reach those goals.

Delegations consider and provide guidance on policies and course of action, which are then coordinated by the Secretariat. While WHA can make recommendations and suggest courses of action, particularly in unprecedented times of global health risk, it depends on each government to determine their response and act upon it.

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