"About Us: Understanding Our Constitution - Who We Are"

When you navigate to https://www.who.int/about/who-we-are, you're not just visiting a website; you're stepping into the digital headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO). This page is not merely an 'About Us' section; it's a gateway to understanding the global health body's constitution, mission, and structure.

Understanding the WHO Constitution

The WHO Constitution, adopted in 1946, is the legal framework that guides the Organization's work. It's the blueprint that outlines WHO's purpose, functions, and structure. You can find the full text of the Constitution on the WHO website.

Key Provisions of the WHO Constitution

• The Constitution defines WHO's main objective as "the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health."
• It outlines the functions of WHO, including the collection and dissemination of health information, the promotion of health through the control and eradication of diseases, and the provision of technical assistance to countries.
• The Constitution also establishes the WHO's governing bodies, namely the World Health Assembly, the Executive Board, and the Secretariat.

WHO's Mission and Vision

Delving deeper into the 'Who we are' section reveals WHO's mission and vision. The mission is "the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health." This is a bold and inspiring goal that guides all of WHO's work. The vision, on the other hand, is "the ultimate vision of a world where everyone can live healthy, productive lives, regardless of who they are or where they live."

WHO's Structure and Governance

The 'Who we are' page also provides a comprehensive overview of WHO's structure and governance. The Organization is headed by the Director-General, who is elected by the World Health Assembly for a five-year term. The World Health Assembly is the governing body of WHO, composed of representatives from all Member States. The Executive Board is responsible for implementing the decisions and policies of the World Health Assembly.

Regional Offices and Country Offices

WHO's structure also includes six regional offices and 150 country offices. These offices work together to ensure that WHO's work is coordinated and effective at the global, regional, and country levels. This decentralized structure allows WHO to respond to health challenges in a timely and effective manner.

WHO's Work and Impact

The 'Who we are' page also highlights WHO's work and impact. From leading global health responses to noncommunicable diseases, maternal, child, and adolescent health, WHO plays a crucial role in improving health outcomes worldwide. The page also features WHO's achievements, such as the eradication of smallpox and the control of polio, demonstrating the Organization's impact over the years.

Join the Conversation

Whether you're a health professional, a policymaker, or a concerned citizen, the 'Who we are' page invites you to engage with WHO's work. You can explore the various ways to get involved, from volunteering to donating, and from advocating to partnering. By understanding WHO's constitution, mission, and structure, you're not just learning about the Organization; you're becoming part of its global health community.