The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that is responsible for promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. Established in 1948, the WHO has played a crucial role in shaping the global health landscape and improving the lives of billions of people around the world. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the historical significance of the World Health Organization and its impact on public health.
The Birth of WHO: Creation and Objectives
The League of Nations Health Organization
The League of Nations Health Organization was established in 1921 as a response to the devastation caused by World War I. Its primary objective was to promote international cooperation in the field of public health and to prevent future health crises. The organization aimed to provide technical assistance to countries in need, promote health education, and establish international standards for sanitation, hygiene, and disease control. The League of Nations Health Organization played a crucial role in the development of international health policies and the establishment of the World Health Organization in 1948.
The United Nations and Global Health
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization that was established in 1945 with the primary objective of promoting peace, security, and cooperation among its member states. One of the key components of the UN’s mandate is to promote global health and well-being. In this regard, the UN has played a critical role in shaping the international health agenda and has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of the World Health Organization (WHO).
The UN recognized the importance of health as a fundamental human right and a critical component of sustainable development. Consequently, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which affirmed the right of all individuals to the highest attainable standard of health. This declaration set the stage for the creation of the WHO, which was established in 1948 as a specialized agency of the UN with the mandate to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.
The UN’s commitment to global health is reflected in its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which were adopted in 2015 with the aim of ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring that all people everywhere can live their healthiest lives. The SDGs recognize that achieving good health and well-being requires a multi-sectoral approach that encompasses economic, social, and environmental factors. The SDGs also emphasize the importance of universal health coverage, access to essential medicines and vaccines, and the need to strengthen health systems to ensure that all individuals can access quality healthcare services.
In conclusion, the UN has played a crucial role in shaping the international health agenda and has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of the WHO. The UN’s commitment to global health is reflected in its various initiatives, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Sustainable Development Goals, and its efforts to promote universal health coverage and strengthen health systems.
The Impact of WHO’s Work
Epidemic and Pandemic Control
The Evolution of WHO’s Response to Epidemics and Pandemics
Since its establishment in 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) has played a pivotal role in addressing global health challenges, including the control of epidemics and pandemics. Over the years, the organization’s approach to epidemic and pandemic control has evolved significantly, reflecting advances in scientific knowledge, changes in disease patterns, and shifts in international political and economic landscapes.
WHO’s Response to Historical Epidemics and Pandemics
Throughout its history, WHO has responded to numerous epidemics and pandemics, including the 1957 Asian flu pandemic, the 1967-1968 Hong Kong flu pandemic, the 2003 SARS outbreak, and the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. In each of these cases, WHO provided technical guidance, mobilized resources, and coordinated international efforts to control the spread of disease and mitigate its impact on public health.
WHO’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in late 2019, posed unprecedented challenges to global health and security. In response, WHO played a critical role in coordinating the international response to the pandemic, providing technical guidance, and mobilizing resources to support affected countries. WHO’s activities during the pandemic included:
- Collaborating with national governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders to develop and implement public health measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Providing guidance on infection prevention and control, diagnostics, treatment, and vaccine development.
- Coordinating the distribution of medical supplies and other resources to countries in need.
- Promoting research and innovation to address gaps in knowledge and address emerging challenges.
The Future of WHO’s Work in Epidemic and Pandemic Control
As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and faces new and emerging health threats, WHO’s work in epidemic and pandemic control remains critical. Going forward, WHO is likely to focus on strengthening health systems, improving surveillance and monitoring, enhancing laboratory capacity, and fostering international collaboration to ensure a more effective and coordinated global response to future health crises.
Public Health Policies and Guidelines
Throughout its history, the World Health Organization (WHO) has played a crucial role in shaping public health policies and guidelines around the world. One of the key functions of the WHO is to provide technical assistance and guidance to countries in the development and implementation of evidence-based public health policies. The organization has been instrumental in promoting the adoption of policies and guidelines that have had a significant impact on improving global health outcomes.
One of the earliest and most significant policy initiatives undertaken by the WHO was the establishment of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in 1974. The EPI was designed to increase access to immunization services for children in developing countries, and it has been credited with saving millions of lives. The WHO also played a key role in the development of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which was launched in 1988 in response to the threat posed by the virulent strain of poliovirus. The initiative has been successful in reducing the number of polio cases by more than 99% worldwide, and it is expected to be the first disease to be eradicated from the world.
In addition to vaccination programs, the WHO has also been involved in the development of guidelines for the prevention and control of infectious diseases. For example, the organization has developed guidelines for the treatment of tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV/AIDS, which have been widely adopted by countries around the world. The WHO has also been at the forefront of efforts to promote the use of essential medicines, including antibiotics and antimalarial drugs, to treat common illnesses in developing countries.
More recently, the WHO has been involved in the development of guidelines for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. These guidelines emphasize the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles, including regular physical activity, healthy diets, and avoidance of tobacco and alcohol, as well as the provision of effective health services for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of NCDs.
Overall, the WHO’s work in developing and promoting public health policies and guidelines has had a significant impact on improving global health outcomes. The organization’s technical assistance and guidance have been instrumental in promoting the adoption of evidence-based policies and guidelines that have helped to reduce the burden of disease and improve the health and well-being of people around the world.
The Challenges Faced by WHO
Funding and Political Influence
The World Health Organization’s Funding Structure
The World Health Organization (WHO) relies heavily on voluntary contributions from member states, private donors, and other partners for its funding. This funding structure has been subject to criticism as it makes the organization vulnerable to the influence of powerful member states, particularly those with large economies. The United States, for instance, has been the largest contributor to the WHO’s budget, providing around 15% of the organization’s total funding. However, the US government has often used its financial leverage to push for policy changes that align with its interests, such as the promotion of private sector involvement in healthcare.
The Influence of Politics on WHO’s Work
Political influence also affects the WHO’s work through the appointment of its director-general. The director-general is elected by the WHO’s executive board, which is composed of representatives from member states. The election process is often subject to political maneuvering, with powerful countries seeking to promote their own candidates or block those they perceive as being too independent. This has led to concerns about the WHO’s independence and its ability to take bold action in the face of political pressure.
The Impact of Political and Economic Interests on Global Health
The WHO’s funding structure and vulnerability to political influence have also led to concerns about the organization’s ability to prioritize global health needs over the interests of powerful member states. For example, during the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, some member states were accused of blocking efforts to contain the virus due to concerns about the impact on their economies. Similarly, the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic has been criticized for being too closely aligned with the interests of powerful member states, such as China, which has been accused of covering up the extent of the outbreak.
In conclusion, the WHO’s funding structure and vulnerability to political influence have been significant challenges for the organization, hindering its ability to effectively promote global health and address health crises in a timely and impartial manner.
Balancing National Interests and Global Health
One of the significant challenges faced by the World Health Organization (WHO) is balancing the competing interests of national governments with the goal of promoting global health. This has been a longstanding issue for the organization since its inception in 1948.
On one hand, WHO is tasked with addressing global health issues that affect all nations, such as pandemics, environmental pollution, and climate change. However, on the other hand, member states have their own national interests and priorities that may not always align with the organization’s goals.
For example, during the Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014, some countries were reluctant to share information and resources with affected nations due to concerns about the impact on their own economies and political stability. Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, some countries have been accused of downplaying the severity of the outbreak or hoarding medical supplies, which has hindered the global response.
In order to address this challenge, WHO has had to develop strategies to balance the competing interests of member states while still promoting global health. This includes working with member states to develop joint strategies and plans, providing technical assistance and resources to support national health systems, and building partnerships with non-state actors such as civil society organizations and the private sector.
Overall, balancing national interests and global health remains a significant challenge for WHO, but the organization has shown resilience and adaptability in addressing this issue over the years.
WHO’s Contributions to Medical Research and Innovation
Research Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
Since its inception, the World Health Organization (WHO) has played a crucial role in fostering research collaboration and knowledge sharing in the field of public health. One of the organization’s primary objectives is to promote international cooperation and collaboration in the pursuit of improving global health outcomes. This section will delve into the ways in which the WHO has facilitated research collaboration and knowledge sharing among its member states and various stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
International Research Collaboration
The WHO has been instrumental in fostering international research collaboration by providing a platform for scientists, researchers, and policymakers from different countries to come together and share their expertise. Through various initiatives, the organization encourages collaboration between researchers in developed and developing countries, with the aim of promoting knowledge exchange and fostering innovation. Some of these initiatives include:
- The WHO’s International Collaborating Centres (ICCs) program, which establishes partnerships between the organization and leading research institutions worldwide. These centers focus on addressing specific public health issues and promoting collaborative research projects.
- The WHO’s Global Health Research Group, which facilitates global collaboration in health research by bringing together researchers, policymakers, and funders from diverse backgrounds. The group’s primary goal is to identify research priorities and foster partnerships that can help address global health challenges.
Knowledge Sharing and Dissemination
In addition to promoting international research collaboration, the WHO has also played a significant role in facilitating knowledge sharing and dissemination within the global health community. The organization works to ensure that the latest research findings and best practices are disseminated widely, enabling healthcare professionals and policymakers to make informed decisions based on the latest evidence. Some of the ways in which the WHO facilitates knowledge sharing include:
- Publishing research findings and policy recommendations in its various publications, such as the WHO Global Health Observatory, which provides essential data and analysis on various health-related topics.
- Organizing international conferences, workshops, and seminars that bring together researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to discuss emerging health issues and share their expertise.
- Supporting the development of training programs and educational resources that help healthcare professionals stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in their respective fields.
Through these efforts, the WHO has fostered a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing within the global health community, enabling researchers and policymakers to work together more effectively in addressing the world’s most pressing health challenges.
Vaccine Development and Access
Introduction
The World Health Organization (WHO) has played a significant role in promoting and supporting vaccine development and access around the world. The organization has been instrumental in coordinating global efforts to develop and distribute vaccines, particularly for diseases that disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries. This section will provide an overview of WHO’s contributions to vaccine development and access, including its role in the development of new vaccines, the promotion of vaccine research and innovation, and the coordination of vaccine distribution efforts.
WHO’s Role in Vaccine Development
WHO has been involved in the development of many vaccines, including those for diseases such as polio, measles, and yellow fever. The organization works closely with researchers, academics, and industry partners to support the development of new vaccines and to ensure that they are safe and effective. WHO also plays a key role in coordinating the regulatory approval process for new vaccines, working with national regulatory authorities to ensure that they meet international standards for safety and efficacy.
Promoting Vaccine Research and Innovation
In addition to its role in vaccine development, WHO also promotes vaccine research and innovation through various initiatives. For example, the organization established the International Vaccine Price Fixing Working Group, which aims to promote the development of affordable vaccines for developing countries. WHO also supports the development of new vaccine technologies, such as mRNA vaccines, which have shown promise in the fight against COVID-19.
Coordination of Vaccine Distribution Efforts
WHO plays a critical role in coordinating vaccine distribution efforts around the world. The organization works with governments, NGOs, and other partners to ensure that vaccines are delivered to those who need them most. WHO also provides technical assistance and logistical support to countries to help them establish and strengthen their vaccine programs. In addition, the organization works to improve vaccine delivery systems, including cold chain infrastructure, to ensure that vaccines remain effective and reach those who need them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, WHO’s contributions to vaccine development and access have been significant and far-reaching. The organization has played a key role in the development of new vaccines, the promotion of vaccine research and innovation, and the coordination of vaccine distribution efforts. WHO’s work in this area has helped to save countless lives and has contributed to the global effort to reduce the burden of disease.
The Future of WHO: Strengthening Global Health Security
The International Health Regulations
The International Health Regulations (IHR) is a set of rules and guidelines that aim to prevent the spread of diseases across international borders. The IHR was established in 1969, and it is the only legally binding instrument that governs international health regulations. The IHR provides a framework for countries to work together to prevent, control, and respond to the spread of diseases that pose a threat to global health security.
Under the IHR, countries are required to notify the World Health Organization (WHO) of any events that may constitute a public health emergency of international concern. This includes events such as outbreaks of serious diseases, the spread of antimicrobial resistance, and the emergence of new and re-emerging diseases.
The IHR also sets out measures that countries should take to prevent the spread of diseases, including the use of screening and surveillance measures at borders, the establishment of quarantine and isolation facilities, and the implementation of public health measures such as vaccination and contact tracing.
One of the key strengths of the IHR is its flexibility. The IHR allows countries to adapt their measures to their own circumstances, while still providing a framework for international cooperation and coordination. The IHR also encourages countries to share information and collaborate on research and development, in order to improve global health security.
In recent years, the IHR has been updated to reflect the changing nature of global health threats. The updated IHR includes provisions for managing the international spread of polio, influenza, and other diseases, as well as measures to address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.
Overall, the IHR plays a critical role in protecting global health security by providing a framework for countries to work together to prevent and respond to the spread of diseases. By strengthening the IHR, the WHO is helping to ensure that the world is better prepared to face the challenges of the future.
Strengthening Emergency Risk Management and Humanitarian Response
Strengthening Emergency Risk Management and Humanitarian Response is a crucial aspect of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) future goals. The WHO has recognized the need to improve its emergency risk management and humanitarian response capabilities in order to effectively address global health crises. The following are some of the key strategies that the WHO is implementing to strengthen its emergency risk management and humanitarian response:
Developing a Global Risk Assessment Framework
The WHO is working on developing a global risk assessment framework that will enable it to identify and assess potential health risks and crises on a global scale. This framework will provide a standardized approach to risk assessment, enabling the WHO to respond more effectively to health emergencies. The framework will also help the WHO to prioritize its resources and efforts, ensuring that it can respond to the most pressing health crises.
Improving Emergency Preparedness and Response Capabilities
The WHO is also working to improve its emergency preparedness and response capabilities. This includes developing and implementing emergency response plans, training emergency response teams, and establishing partnerships with other organizations to improve response capabilities. The WHO is also working to improve its ability to coordinate with other organizations and governments during health emergencies, ensuring that resources and efforts are effectively directed.
Strengthening Humanitarian Response Capabilities
The WHO is also focused on strengthening its humanitarian response capabilities. This includes providing humanitarian assistance in the form of medical supplies, personnel, and other resources during health emergencies. The WHO is also working to improve its ability to coordinate with other organizations and governments to provide effective humanitarian assistance.
Building Resilience in Vulnerable Communities
Finally, the WHO is working to build resilience in vulnerable communities. This includes providing support to communities that are at a higher risk of health emergencies, such as those living in conflict zones or areas prone to natural disasters. The WHO is also working to improve access to healthcare in these communities, ensuring that they are better equipped to respond to health emergencies.
Overall, the WHO’s focus on strengthening emergency risk management and humanitarian response is crucial for ensuring that it can effectively address global health crises. By developing a global risk assessment framework, improving emergency preparedness and response capabilities, strengthening humanitarian response capabilities, and building resilience in vulnerable communities, the WHO is well-positioned to respond to health emergencies and protect global health security.
The Importance of WHO in Modern Times
The COVID-19 Pandemic and WHO’s Role
WHO’s Early Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in December 2019, quickly became a global health crisis that has claimed millions of lives and disrupted economies worldwide. In response to this unprecedented health emergency, the World Health Organization (WHO) took swift action to coordinate the global response to the pandemic.
WHO’s Role in Providing Technical Assistance and Guidance
From the outset of the pandemic, WHO has played a critical role in providing technical assistance and guidance to countries affected by the virus. WHO has provided guidance on disease surveillance, case detection, and contact tracing, as well as providing advice on clinical care and treatment of patients infected with the virus. WHO has also played a key role in coordinating the development and distribution of vaccines and other treatments for the virus.
WHO’s Role in Promoting Global Collaboration and Coordination
In addition to providing technical assistance and guidance, WHO has played a critical role in promoting global collaboration and coordination in response to the pandemic. WHO has facilitated the sharing of information and resources among countries, as well as coordinating the efforts of various international organizations and partners working to combat the virus. WHO has also worked to ensure that all countries have access to the resources and support they need to respond to the pandemic, regardless of their economic or political status.
WHO’s Role in Advocating for Global Health Equity
Throughout the pandemic, WHO has advocated for global health equity, highlighting the need for equitable access to vaccines and other treatments for all countries, regardless of their economic or political status. WHO has also called for increased investment in global health systems to better prepare for future health crises and ensure that all countries have the resources they need to protect their citizens’ health.
WHO’s Continued Efforts to Combat the Pandemic
As the pandemic continues to evolve, WHO remains committed to its mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. WHO continues to provide technical assistance and guidance to countries, as well as advocating for global health equity and promoting global collaboration and coordination in response to the pandemic. Through its efforts, WHO is working to ensure that the world is better prepared to respond to future health crises and that all people everywhere can live healthier, safer, and more productive lives.
Addressing Climate Change and Health
As the world faces the challenges posed by climate change, the role of the World Health Organization (WHO) in addressing the health implications of this global issue becomes increasingly significant. Climate change poses a multitude of health risks, including the spread of infectious diseases, the exacerbation of respiratory ailments, and the worsening of mental health issues.
Mitigating the Spread of Infectious Diseases
Climate change increases the likelihood of the spread of infectious diseases, as warmer temperatures and increased rainfall create favorable conditions for the growth and proliferation of pathogens. The WHO plays a crucial role in monitoring and responding to the emergence of new and re-emerging infectious diseases, such as Zika, Ebola, and COVID-19. By providing technical assistance, funding, and coordination, the WHO helps countries strengthen their capacity to detect, respond to, and prevent the spread of these diseases.
Protecting Respiratory Health
Climate change also exacerbates respiratory ailments, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The WHO works to improve air quality and reduce the impact of climate change on respiratory health by promoting the use of clean energy sources, encouraging the development of sustainable transportation systems, and advocating for the adoption of climate-friendly policies at the national and international levels.
Addressing Mental Health Implications
Climate change can also have a profound impact on mental health, as extreme weather events and other climate-related disasters can cause trauma, stress, and anxiety. The WHO plays a critical role in addressing the mental health implications of climate change by supporting research into the psychological impacts of climate change, providing guidance on mental health and climate change, and promoting the integration of mental health considerations into climate change policies and programs.
Overall, the WHO’s work in addressing the health implications of climate change is crucial to ensuring the well-being of individuals and communities around the world. By mitigating the spread of infectious diseases, protecting respiratory health, and addressing mental health implications, the WHO is working to create a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
The Way Forward for WHO
Enhancing Technical Support and Capacity Building
As the world continues to face complex health challenges, the role of the World Health Organization (WHO) becomes increasingly important. To effectively address these challenges, it is essential for the WHO to enhance its technical support and capacity building efforts.
One key aspect of enhancing technical support is to ensure that the WHO has access to the latest scientific and medical research. This can be achieved by establishing partnerships with leading research institutions and organizations around the world. Through these partnerships, the WHO can stay up-to-date on the latest developments in medical research and use this knowledge to inform its policies and programs.
Another important aspect of capacity building is to provide training and education to healthcare professionals and policymakers around the world. This can help to improve the quality of healthcare and strengthen health systems in countries at all levels of development. The WHO can achieve this by working with local and international organizations to develop training programs and provide technical assistance to healthcare professionals and policymakers.
In addition to training and education, the WHO can also support capacity building through the provision of funding and resources. This can help to ensure that healthcare professionals and policymakers have the resources they need to effectively address health challenges in their countries.
Overall, enhancing technical support and capacity building is critical to the success of the WHO in addressing global health challenges. By working with partners around the world, providing training and education, and providing funding and resources, the WHO can help to improve the health and well-being of people around the world.
Improving Financial Mechanisms and Global Solidarity
Enhancing Financial Mechanisms
- Assessing and optimizing existing funding sources
- Analysis of current budget allocation and expenditure
- Identifying untapped revenue streams and potential partnerships
- Evaluating the efficiency of current financial management practices
- Exploring innovative financing options
- Public-private partnerships
- Health impact bonds
- Crowdfunding and individual donations
- Encouraging increased contributions from member states
- Developing a more equitable financial contribution framework
- Incentivizing higher contributions from wealthier nations
- Strengthening accountability and transparency in financial reporting
Fostering Global Solidarity
- Promoting collaboration and coordination among member states
- Strengthening relationships with regional organizations
- Enhancing information sharing and joint initiatives
- Establishing platforms for dialogue and cooperation
- Addressing inequalities in global health
- Supporting vulnerable populations and low-income countries
- Ensuring access to essential health services for all
- Reducing health disparities within and between countries
- Advocating for increased political commitment
- Engaging with national governments and international institutions
- Encouraging high-level leadership and advocacy
- Supporting policy development and implementation at global, regional, and national levels
FAQs
1. What is the World Health Organization (WHO)?
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) that is responsible for promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable. It was established on April 7, 1948, and its headquarters are located in Geneva, Switzerland. The WHO is a member of the United Nations Development Group and works closely with other UN agencies to achieve its goals.
2. What is the historical significance of the World Health Organization?
The historical significance of the World Health Organization (WHO) lies in its role as a global leader in public health. The WHO has played a critical role in shaping the health agenda of the United Nations and has been instrumental in setting international standards for healthcare. The organization has also been instrumental in the eradication of smallpox, the control of malaria, and the prevention of HIV/AIDS. Additionally, the WHO has provided technical assistance and guidance to countries in need, helping to improve healthcare systems and reduce the burden of disease worldwide.
3. What are the main functions of the World Health Organization?
The main functions of the World Health Organization (WHO) include:
- Setting global health standards and guidelines
- Providing technical assistance and guidance to countries
- Monitoring and assessing the health of populations
- Promoting research and innovation in healthcare
- Strengthening healthcare systems and improving access to healthcare services
- Preparing for and responding to global health emergencies
4. How does the World Health Organization work?
The World Health Organization (WHO) works through a combination of global and regional offices, as well as partnerships with governments, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders. The organization develops health policies and guidelines, provides technical assistance and training, and monitors and evaluates the health of populations. The WHO also collaborates with other UN agencies and international organizations to address global health challenges and promote health equity.
5. What is the role of the World Health Organization in global health governance?
The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in global health governance, serving as a global leader in setting health standards and guidelines, and shaping the health agenda of the United Nations. The organization works closely with other UN agencies and international organizations to promote health equity and improve access to healthcare services worldwide. The WHO also plays a key role in coordinating global responses to health emergencies, such as pandemics and outbreaks.
6. What is the relationship between the World Health Organization and national governments?
The relationship between the World Health Organization (WHO) and national governments is based on cooperation and partnership. The WHO works closely with national governments to support the development of healthcare systems, improve access to healthcare services, and promote health equity. The organization provides technical assistance and guidance to countries, and works with governments to strengthen healthcare systems and improve health outcomes. The WHO also collaborates with national governments to respond to global health emergencies, such as pandemics and outbreaks.
7. What is the role of the World Health Organization in promoting health equity?
The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a critical role in promoting health equity, working to ensure that everyone has access to high-quality healthcare services, regardless of their background or circumstances. The organization develops policies and guidelines to promote health equity, and provides technical assistance and training to countries to help them reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes for all people. The WHO also collaborates with other UN agencies and international organizations to promote health equity and reduce poverty, which are key determinants of health.
8. What is the World Health Organization doing to address climate change and its impact on health?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes that climate change is a major global health threat, and is working to address its impact on health. The organization has developed policies and guidelines to promote climate-resilient health systems, and is working with countries to
