Role of the World Health Organization in the International System

Abstract

The WHO constitution is significant for the depth and breadth of the organization's agenda. Health is defined as "a condition of total physical, mental, and social well-being, rather than simply the absence of sickness or disability," and the enjoyment of the best achievable degree of health is recognised as a basic human right. Governments are required to offer "appropriate health and social measures." The WHO constitution establishes 22 duties for the organisation, which include nearly every imaginable action related to health promotion.