WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 1948 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It directs and coordinates international efforts in public health, disease prevention, health emergencies, and health policy across its 194 member states. WHO is known for disease surveillance, vaccination campaigns, pandemic response, and setting global health standards and guidelines.

The organization operates through six regional offices and maintains programs addressing communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, mental health, and other priority areas. WHO played a central role in disease eradication efforts (notably smallpox) and continues to lead responses to emerging health threats. It also works on health equity, access to medicines, and strengthening health systems in low- and middle-income countries.