The World Health Organization (WHO) was established in 1948 as a specialized agency of the United Nations with the mission to promote international public health. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the WHO’s work focuses on monitoring global health trends, setting international health standards, coordinating responses to public health emergencies, and leading efforts to combat disease outbreaks. The organization provides technical support to countries and works to strengthen healthcare systems, particularly in low and middle-income nations.

Notable achievements of the WHO include the global eradication of smallpox and its ongoing efforts to combat diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis. The WHO also plays a central role in the global response to pandemics, including the COVID-19 crisis. Additionally, the WHO is responsible for setting guidelines on issues such as nutrition, mental health, and environmental health, with a goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all people worldwide.