The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to promoting global public health. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, WHO works with its 194 member states and numerous partners to improve health outcomes around the world. Its mission includes setting international health standards, coordinating responses to health emergencies, and providing guidance on public health practices. Whether dealing with disease outbreaks, improving access to vaccines, or promoting healthier lifestyles, WHO plays a central role in safeguarding global health.
WHO leadership is made up of the:
Executive Director of WHO’s Health Emergencies Programme: Dr Michael Ryan
Chief Scientist: Dr Jeremy Farrar
Assistant Director-General:
for Data, Analytics and Delivery for Impact at the World Health Organization (WHO): Dr Samira Asma
of the Universal Health Coverage, Life Course Division: Dr Bruce Aylward
of External Relations and Governance: Dr Catharina Boehme
for the Division of Health Emergency Intelligence and Surveillance Systems in the Emergencies Programme: Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu
of the Universal Health Coverage, Healthier Populations Division: Dr Ailan Li
for Access to Medicines and Health Products, for Antimicrobial Resistance (ad interim): Dr Yukiko Nakatani
of Universal Health Coverage in Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases: Dr Jérôme Salomon
for Business Operations, Mr Raul Thomas.
Chef de Cabinet: Dr Razia Pendse
"Each year, scientists and other technical experts contribute to the solution of global health problems by participating in expert committees, advisory groups, conferences, study and scientific groups, and other activities of WHO. To be effective, the work of WHO and the contributions of its experts must be, actually and ostensibly, objective and independent."
This document, titled "Global Health Strategy 2025-2028," is the World Health Organization’s (WHO) strategic plan outlining its priorities and vision for global health between 2025 and 2028. It sets forth the key challenges WHO aims to address—ranging from infectious and non-communicable diseases to maternal and child health, as well as preparedness for emerging health threats and details the strategic actions the organization will undertake to strengthen health systems and move toward universal health coverage.
The strategy serves as a roadmap for both WHO and its member states, guiding resource allocation, policy implementation, and cooperative efforts with international partners. It emphasizes the importance of transparent decision-making and accountability, outlining clear targets and initiatives to improve public health outcomes across the globe. Essentially, this document defines WHO’s long-term direction, ensuring that all its activities and collaborations over the coming years align with its commitment to a healthier, more resilient world.
In contrast, the Global Health Strategy 2025–2028 sets a roadmap for the next phase of global health efforts, drawing on lessons learned and achievements from GPW 13 to define new priorities and innovations to meet emerging challenges beyond 2023. Together, they reflect a continuum in WHO’s strategic vision—both aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals
It incorporates lessons learned from GPW 13 and aligns with the evolving priorities and emerging challenges outlined in the Global Health Strategy 2025–2028. Essentially, the technical paper acts as a detailed blueprint that ensures continuity in WHO’s commitment to universal health coverage, health emergency preparedness, and healthier populations while adapting the metrics, targets, and governance structures to meet new demands in an ever-changing global health landscape.