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About World Health Organization (WHO) – Functions, Role, and Importance

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a United Nations (UN) specialized agency dedicated to international public health. Established in 1948, it plays a crucial role in disease prevention, health emergencies, and global health policies. For students preparing for UPSC, SSC, PSC, NID, NIFT, and other exams, understanding WHO’s functions and initiatives is essential. This article covers its history, key roles, governance, and impact on global health, along with sample questions for exam practice.

World Health Organization (WHO) – Global Health Agency

About the World Health Organization (WHO)
1. Establishment and Headquarters
Founded on 7 April 1948 (now observed as World Health Day).
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with 150+ country offices worldwide.
Created to coordinate global health efforts post-World War II.

2. WHO’s Definition of Health
WHO defines health as:
“A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease.”
This holistic approach guides its work in disease control, mental health, and healthcare equity.

3. Key Functions of WHO
Global Health Leadership: Coordinates international responses to pandemics (COVID-19, Ebola).
Disease Prevention & Control: Works on malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, and non-communicable diseases.
Health Emergencies: Leads crisis responses, sets global health guidelines.
Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Aims to ensure affordable healthcare for all.
Research & Guidelines: Publishes ICD (International Classification of Diseases) and Essential Medicines List.

4. WHO’s Governance Structure
World Health Assembly (WHA): The highest decision-making body with 194 member states.
Executive Board: 34 health experts implementing policies.
Director-General: Currently Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (since 2017).

5. Major WHO Initiatives
COVAX: Ensures equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution.
Global Polio Eradication: Reduced polio cases by 99%.
Tobacco Control: Implements WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).

6. Challenges Faced by WHO
Funding Dependence: Relies on voluntary contributions, affecting autonomy.
Political Influence: Faces pressure from member countries.
Operational Barriers: Difficulties in war zones and underdeveloped regions.

7. WHO and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
WHO supports SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being) by:
Reducing maternal and child mortality.
Combating AIDS, malaria, and other diseases.
Strengthening health systems worldwide.

Questions & Answers for Competitive Exams
Q1. When was the World Health Organization (WHO) established?
Ans: 7 April 1948 (observed as World Health Day).
Q2. Where is the headquarters of WHO located?
Ans: Geneva, Switzerland.
Q3. What is the main objective of WHO’s COVAX initiative?
Ans: To ensure fair global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, especially in low-income countries.
Q4. Who is the current Director-General of WHO (as of 2025)?
Ans: Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (since 2017).
Q5. Which SDG is primarily linked to WHO’s work?
Ans: SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being.

The World Health Organization (WHO) remains a vital global health leader, addressing pandemics, health equity, and disease control. For UPSC, SSC, PSC, and other exam aspirants, understanding WHO’s role is crucial. Stay updated with daily quizzes and current affairs on MyEntrance.in to ace your exams!
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