Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
WHO Constitution
WHO/T. David
Pregnant women attend a health class during a Buntis Day organized by the health workers in Madaum, Tagum City.
Pregnant women attend a health class during a Buntis Day organized by the health workers in Madaum, Tagum City.
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Credits
Health is a fundamental human right
Adopted on 22 July 1946 in the aftermath of the Second World War and entering into force on 7 April 1948, the WHO Constitution established the World Health Organization as the United Nations specialized agency for health. It sets out WHO's objective, functions, governance structure and guiding values, providing the legal and ethical foundation for the Organization's work. The Constitution defines WHO's objective as “the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health” and remains the cornerstone of global health cooperation.
Principles
The Constitution of the World Health Organization is founded on a set of principles that guide the Organization's mission and actions. These principles affirm that:
The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition.
The health of all peoples is fundamental to the attainment of peace and security and is dependent on the fullest cooperation of individuals and States.
The achievement of any State in the promotion and protection of health is of value to all.
Unequal development in different countries in the promotion of health and control of diseases, especially communicable disease, is a common danger.
Healthy development of the child is of basic importance; the ability to live harmoniously in a changing total environment is essential to such development.
The extension to all peoples of the benefits of medical, psychological and related knowledge is essential to the fullest attainment of health.
Informed opinion and active cooperation on the part of the public are of the utmost importance in the improvement of the health of the people.
Governments have a responsibility for the health of their peoples which can be fulfilled only by the provision of adequate health and social measures.
Commentary
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Adopted in 1946 and in force since 1948, the WHO Constitution is the Organization’s founding treaty. It defines WHO’s mandate and governance, and affirms the principles of health as a fundamental human right and a foundation for international cooperation.
Core documents
A collection of WHO’s core constitutional, governance and regulatory documents, including the WHO Constitution, rules of procedure, financial regulations and other foundational instruments.