0World Health Organization (WHO)
Introduction
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for international public health. It plays a crucial role in promoting global health, coordinating disease control, and setting international health standards. Established in 1948, WHO has been pivotal in eradicating diseases, improving healthcare systems, and supporting nations in health crises.
Establishment and Headquarters
•Established: 7 April 1948 (celebrated as World Health Day).
•Parent Organization: United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
•Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
•Current Director-General (as of 2025): Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (Ethiopia).
•Membership: 194 member states, including India (a founding member).
Constitutional Basis and Objectives
The WHO Constitution defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
Major Objectives:
1.Promote the highest possible level of health for all peoples.
2.Direct and coordinate international health work.
3.Control and prevent communicable and non-communicable diseases.
4.Promote maternal and child health.
5.Support research, medical education, and health data collection.
Structure of WHO
WHO’s governance is based on three main organs:
1.World Health Assembly (WHA)
•The decision-making body of WHO.
•Meets annually in Geneva.
•Each member state has one vote.
•Determines policies, approves programs and budgets.
2.Executive Board
•Comprises 34 technically qualified members elected for 3-year terms.
•Implements decisions of the WHA and advises it on technical matters.
3.Secretariat
•Headed by the Director-General.
•Executes the day-to-day activities and health programs.
Key Functions of WHO
•Disease Control: Global surveillance, prevention, and eradication of diseases like smallpox, polio, tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV/AIDS.
•Standard Setting: Establishes norms for vaccines, drugs, and healthcare safety through guidelines and classifications (like ICD – International Classification of Diseases).
•Health Research: Supports biomedical and epidemiological research.
•Emergency Response: Provides assistance during health emergencies, pandemics, and natural disasters (e.g., COVID-19 pandemic).
•Health Data Collection: Publishes World Health Report and Global Health Observatory Data.
•Capacity Building: Assists countries in strengthening their health systems and policies.
Major Programs and Initiatives
1.Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) – Launched in 1988, significant success with only a few countries remaining polio-endemic.
2.Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) – Promotes vaccination against common diseases.
3.Health for All by 2000 (Alma-Ata Declaration, 1978) – Promoted primary healthcare approach.
4.Roll Back Malaria Programme (RBM) – Global partnership to reduce malaria burden.
5.Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) – First global health treaty adopted in 2003.
6.COVID-19 Response (2020–21) – Coordinated international response, vaccine distribution under COVAX initiative.
7.Universal Health Coverage (UHC) – Promotes equitable access to healthcare for all.
WHO and India
•India is a founding member and actively collaborates with WHO on health programs.
•WHO India Country Office established in 1948 in New Delhi.
•Joint efforts include:
•National Polio Eradication Programme (NPEP)
•National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme
•Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP)
•COVID-19 pandemic response and vaccine rollout
•India contributes experts and funds to WHO programs and benefits from its technical support.
Achievements
•Eradication of smallpox in 1980.
•Near-eradication of polio.
•Global guidelines for COVID-19 management and vaccines.
•Promotion of mental health, maternal health, and nutrition programs.
Challenges and Criticisms
•Accusations of delayed response during the COVID-19 pandemic.
•Dependence on voluntary funding, which sometimes influences neutrality.
•Geopolitical pressures affecting transparency and decision-making.
•Need for stronger accountability and reform in crisis management.
Conclusion
The World Health Organization remains a cornerstone of global health governance. Despite challenges, it continues to guide international efforts toward achieving “Health for All” through coordination, research, and policy advocacy. For India and the world, WHO’s role is indispensable in building resilient healthcare systems, preventing pandemics, and ensuring global well-being.
