Last Updated:

2024-02-15 23:14:41

World Health Organization

Specialized UN agency for global public health.



Specialized UN agency for global public health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) was founded in 1948 to address international public health issues. It sets health standards, provides technical assistance, and conducts research. WHO's achievements include eradicating smallpox and near-eradicating polio. It focuses on various health issues, advocates for universal health care, and is governed by the World Health Assembly.

Elevance Health United Nations COVID-19 World Bank UNICEF WTO World Wide Web International Committee of the Red Cross UnitedHealth Group HIV

1851-06-23

International Sanitary Conferences Begin

The International Sanitary Conferences (ISC) commenced on June 23, 1851, focusing on addressing epidemic diseases like cholera. These conferences spanned over 87 years and played a crucial role in laying the foundation for international agreements on sanitary measures to combat diseases.

1893

International List of Causes of Death established

The first version of the International List of Causes of Death was established in 1893, laying the foundation for the development of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). This early initiative aimed to standardize the classification of causes of death for better health data analysis.

1907

Establishment of l’Office international d’hygiène publique (OIHP)

WHO evolved from l’Office international d’hygiène publique (OIHP), which was established in 1907.

1923

Health Organization of the League of Nations

The Health Organization of the League of Nations was set up in 1923 and had specific tasks related to epidemic control, quarantine measures, and drug standardization. It laid the foundation for the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948.

1946-07-22

Establishment of the World Health Organization

On July 22, 1946, representatives of 51 Members of the UN and 10 other nations signed an organization establishing the World Health Organization. An Interim Commission was also created to oversee health activities until the official Constitution of the WHO came into effect.

1947-06

Establishment of the Bulletin of the World Health Organization

The Bulletin of the World Health Organization was established in June 1947. It serves as a platform for disseminating public health information and research findings.

1947-07

Publication of the first issue of the Bulletin of the World Health Organization

The first issue of the Bulletin of the World Health Organization was published in July 1947, a few months before the establishment of WHO. The Bulletin has evolved over time, reflecting the changes and developments within the organization.

1947-09

Cholera Epidemic in Egypt

The cholera epidemic in Egypt began in September 1947. It was reported in the second issue of the Bulletin's first volume by Dr. Aly Tewfik Shousha Pasha, the first chairman of the WHO Executive Board.

1948-04-07

Establishment of WHO

On April 7, 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) was officially formed as a global health organization to address public health issues and promote well-being worldwide.

1948-06-24

Opening of the First Health Assembly in Geneva

On June 24, 1948, the first Health Assembly opened in Geneva with delegations from 53 Member States. This marked a significant step in the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO).

1948-07-24

First World Health Assembly Meeting

The first meeting of the World Health Assembly took place on 24 July 1948, where a budget of US$5 million was secured for the following year. G. Brock Chisholm was appointed as the director-general, and priorities were set to address diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, and improve maternal and child health.

1948-08-31

Establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO)

On August 31, 1948, the Interim Commission ceased to exist and was immediately succeeded by the World Health Organization (WHO). This transition marked the official establishment of WHO as a global health authority.

1949

Establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC)

In 1949, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) established the People's Republic of China (PRC), leading to the expulsion of the Republic of China (ROC) from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other UN organs.

1950

Discovery of antibiotics accelerates

In 1950, the discovery of antibiotics accelerated, leading to significant advancements in the field of medicine. This discovery revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections and played a crucial role in improving global health outcomes.

1952

WHO AWaRe antibiotic book

In 1952, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced the AWaRe antibiotic book to provide guidance on the appropriate use of essential antibiotics.

1955

WHO launches Global Malaria Eradication Program

In 1955, the World Health Organization initiated the Global Malaria Eradication Program with a focus on using chloroquine for malaria prevention and treatment, and DDT for mosquito control.

1958-04-07

Establishment of the World Health Organization

The World Health Organization was established in 1958 to address global health issues and promote well-being worldwide. It has been actively working towards improving healthcare systems and preventing diseases.

1959

Agreement between WHO and IAEA

In 1959, the World Health Organization signed Agreement WHA 12–40 with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to consult each other on programs of mutual interest. This agreement has implications for investigating health effects of radiation.

1965

First Report on Diabetes Mellitus

In 1965, the World Health Organization published the first report on diabetes mellitus and established the International Agency for Research on Cancer, contributing to advancements in understanding and addressing these health issues.

1966

WHO Headquarters Inauguration

The World Health Organization's headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, was inaugurated in 1966, designed by Swiss architect Jean Tschumi. In 2017, plans were made to redesign and extend the headquarters.

1967

WHO launches Intensified Smallpox Eradication Program

In 1967, the World Health Organization commenced the Intensified Smallpox Eradication Program, emphasizing efforts to eradicate smallpox globally.

1967

Intensified Smallpox Eradication Programme Announced by WHO

In 1967, the World Health Organization announces the Intensified Smallpox Eradication Programme, aiming to eradicate smallpox in more than 30 countries through surveillance and vaccination. The program defines eradication as the permanent reduction to zero of a specific pathogen.

1968-04-07

Second Decade of the World Health Organization

The World Health Organization entered its second decade in 1968, continuing its mission to enhance public health and combat diseases on a global scale. This period marked further advancements in healthcare policies and initiatives.

1969

Development of attenuated live-virus vaccine for polio

Albert Sabin develops the attenuated live-virus vaccine for polio, which is administered orally. This breakthrough allows for mass global vaccination campaigns, leading to the near-eradication of polio.

1971

Change in WHO Representation to PRC

In 1971, the representation of China in the World Health Organization (WHO) was changed from the Republic of China (ROC) to the People's Republic of China (PRC), following the establishment of PRC by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

1972

Creation of Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction

In 1972, the Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP) is established at WHO. This program is the only entity within the UN system mandated to conduct research on sexual and reproductive health and rights.

1974

Launch of Expanded Programme on Immunization

The Expanded Programme on Immunization is initiated in 1974. This program aims to increase access to vaccines and immunization services globally, contributing to the prevention of various infectious diseases.

1975

Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR)

In 1975, WHO establishes the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) in collaboration with UNICEF, UNDP, and the World Bank. TDR focuses on neglected diseases and enhances research capacity in disease-endemic countries, contributing significantly to the elimination efforts of diseases like river blindness and leishmaniasis.

1976

Resolution on Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation

In 1976, the WHA enacted a resolution emphasizing community-driven care for disability prevention and rehabilitation, highlighting the importance of inclusive healthcare practices.

1977

Creation of First Essential Medicines List

The First Essential Medicines List was created in 1977 to identify crucial medications that should be available in all healthcare systems. This list plays a vital role in ensuring access to necessary and cost-effective treatments globally.

1978

Adoption of Declaration of Alma-Ata

In 1978, WHO adopts the Declaration of Alma-Ata during the International Conference on Primary Health Care, aiming for 'Health for All' by emphasizing primary healthcare services.

1979

Global Smallpox Eradication

In 1979, a Global Commission declared smallpox eradicated, making it the first disease in history to be eliminated through human efforts.

1980

Eradication of Smallpox

The World Health Organization announced the completion of the eradication of smallpox in 1980.

1980-05-08

Eradication of Smallpox

On May 8, 1980, the WHO made a historic declaration of the eradication of smallpox, marking one of its greatest achievements. This milestone demonstrated the effectiveness of global vaccination campaigns and disease control efforts.

1981

International Code of Marketing Breastmilk Substitutes

In 1981, WHO Member States endorsed the International Code of Marketing Breastmilk Substitutes to address industry practices that were discouraging mothers from breastfeeding.

1983

Discovery of HIV

In 1983, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS, was discovered. This discovery paved the way for further research and understanding of the disease.

1986

Global Programme on HIV/AIDS

The WHO initiated its global programme on HIV/AIDS in 1986, marking a significant step in addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic and promoting awareness and prevention strategies.

1988

Launch of Global Polio Eradication Initiative

In 1988, the World Health Organization (WHO) initiated the Global Polio Eradication Initiative to combat and eliminate polio worldwide. This marked a significant effort in global health to eradicate a debilitating disease.

1994

International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo

At the ICPD held in Cairo, countries agreed to a comprehensive definition of reproductive health and recognition of reproductive rights. The 20-year Programme of Action focused on individuals' needs and rights, including reproductive rights, rather than demographic targets.

1995

Ebola Virus Outbreak in the Congo

In 1995, an outbreak of the Ebola virus in the Congo lasted for three months without the knowledge of the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighting the lack of global public health surveillance and notification systems.

1997

Launch of Global Public Health Intelligence Network (GPHIN)

In 1997, WHO, in collaboration with Canada, introduced the Global Public Health Intelligence Network (GPHIN) to serve as an early warning system for potential epidemics by utilizing information from the Internet, including mentions in blogs and online postings.

1998

Launch of Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy by WHO and UNICEF

The Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy was introduced by WHO and UNICEF to improve the health of children under five in countries with high child mortality rates. Over the years, it has contributed to a significant reduction in child mortality globally.

1999

Appointment of Regional Directors

Since 1999, regional directors of WHO serve for a once-renewable five-year term, and typically take their position on 1 February.

2000

Establishment of Global Outbreak Alert Response Network (GOARN)

In 2000, WHO supplemented GPHIN with the Global Outbreak Alert Response Network (GOARN) to analyze events once detected, connecting 120 networks and institutes to swiftly respond to crises with data, laboratories, skills, and experience.

2001

Measles Initiative Launch

The measles initiative was launched in 2001, significantly reducing global measles-related deaths by 68% by 2007, showcasing effective vaccination and disease control strategies.

2002

Partnerships with NGOs

In 2002, the World Health Organization had partnerships with 473 nongovernmental organizations, including formal relations with 189 international NGOs such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation.

2003

Adoption of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control

WHO adopted the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control to combat the tobacco epidemic by providing a framework for tobacco control measures at the national, regional, and international levels.

2004

Establishment of Global Health Histories project within WHO headquarters

The Global Health Histories project was established within the WHO headquarters in late 2004.

2005-02-27

Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) Comes into Force

The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) came into force on February 27, 2005, with 182 Parties committed to its implementation, making it one of the most widely adopted treaties in the history of the United Nations.

2006

International Health Regulations revised

The International Health Regulations were updated in 2006 to provide countries with clear guidelines for reporting disease outbreaks and public health emergencies to the World Health Organization (WHO), and to activate response systems to manage and contain threats.

2007

Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) Impact

As of 2007, it was estimated that Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) alone had prevented 54 million diarrhoeal deaths, contributing significantly to the reduction of diarrhoea-related mortality. ORT also helped in reducing the nutritional impact of diarrhoea.

2008

Heart disease and stroke emerge as the world's number one killers

In 2008, heart disease and stroke were identified as the leading causes of death globally, signifying a shift from infectious diseases to noncommunicable diseases, as highlighted in the World Health Statistics report.

2009-05

ROC's Participation as 'Chinese Taipei' in WHO

In May 2009, the Department of Health of the Republic of China (ROC) was invited by the World Health Organization (WHO) to attend the 62nd World Health Assembly as an observer under the name 'Chinese Taipei', marking ROC's first participation at WHO meetings since 1971.

2010

Introduction of First rapid molecular test for detection of TB

In 2010, the first rapid molecular test for the detection of tuberculosis was introduced, marking a significant advancement in the diagnosis of this infectious disease.

2011-04-07

The fourth ten years of the World Health Organization: 1978-1987

This account covers the major programs of the WHO from 1978 to 1987, similar to its predecessors. It mainly focuses on documenting the organization's activities during that period.

2012

WHO's Role in Public Health

As of 2012, the WHO defined its role in public health to include providing leadership, shaping the research agenda, setting norms and standards, and monitoring health trends. It also engages in partnerships and provides technical support for sustainable institutional capacity.

2013-12-10

Launch of MiNDbank database

On December 10, 2013, the World Health Organization launched the MiNDbank database as part of its QualityRights initiative to end human rights violations against people with mental health conditions. The database provides information on mental health, substance abuse, disability, human rights, policies, laws, and service standards.

2014-05-05

WHO declares polio spread as a world health emergency

On 5 May 2014, WHO announced that the spread of polio was a world health emergency due to outbreaks in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

2014-08-08

WHO declares Ebola spread as a public health emergency

On 8 August 2014, WHO declared the spread of Ebola as a public health emergency as the outbreak that started in Guinea had spread to other nearby countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone.

2015

Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and Syphilis in Cuba

Cuba becomes the first country to be validated by the World Health Organization for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis.

2016

WHO launches the WHO Health Emergencies Program

In 2016, the World Health Organization launched the WHO Health Emergencies Program, a dedicated initiative to respond to health emergencies and strengthen global health security.

2017-07-01

Appointment of Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as Director-General of WHO

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was appointed as the director-general of the World Health Organization on July 1, 2017, during the World Health Assembly meeting.

2017-10-21

Appointment and Revocation of Robert Mugabe as WHO Goodwill Ambassador

On October 21, 2017, the director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus appointed Robert Mugabe as a WHO Goodwill Ambassador, which was later revoked due to widespread condemnation over Mugabe's human rights record and public health decline in Zimbabwe.

2018-10-30

WHO's first global conference on air pollution and health

WHO organized its first global conference on air pollution and health in collaboration with UN Environment, World Meteorological Organization, and the secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change to improve air quality, combat climate change, and save lives.

2019-04

WHO's new recommendations on screen time for children

In April 2019, the WHO released new recommendations stating that children between the ages of two and five should spend no more than one hour per day engaging in sedentary behavior in front of a screen and that children under two should not have any sedentary screen time.

2020-01-01

Creation of Incident Management Support Team for COVID-19

On 1 January 2020, the WHO created an Incident Management Support Team in response to the COVID-19 pandemic after being notified by Chinese health authorities about cases of pneumonia of unknown cause.

2020-01-14

WHO Announcement on COVID-19 Transmission

On 14 January 2020, the WHO announced preliminary findings on the transmission of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) and warned of limited human-to-human transmission, later confirming human-to-human transmission.

2020-01-30

WHO Declaration of Public Health Emergency for COVID-19

On 30 January 2020, the WHO declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for COVID-19, signaling a call to action for the international community.

2020-04-14

US Funding Halt to WHO

On 14 April 2020, US President Donald Trump announced a halt to United States funding to the WHO, citing mismanagement and cover-up allegations related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2020-05-16

Trump Administration Funding Agreement

On 16 May 2020, the Trump Administration agreed to pay an amount equivalent to what China contributes to the WHO, significantly reducing the U.S. funding to the organization.

2020-07-07

US Withdrawal Intent from WHO

On 7 July 2020, President Trump formally notified the UN of his intent to withdraw the United States from the WHO, a decision that was later reversed by his successor, President Joe Biden.

2021-01

Membership of the World Health Organization

As of January 2021, the World Health Organization has 194 member states, excluding Liechtenstein, with two associate members. Countries become full members by ratifying the WHO Constitution.

2021-03

Extraordinary Call for WHO to Negotiate Pandemic Treaty

In March 2021, 25 governments issued an extraordinary call for the WHO to negotiate a pandemic treaty. Now endorsed by the World Health Assembly, an intergovernmental negotiating body is drafting a pandemic accord.

2022

Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) launched

In 2022, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) was launched at the World Health Assembly to combat the high incidence of polio, leading to a significant reduction in cases and preventing millions of childhood deaths.

2023-04-03

Intergovernmental Negotiating Body Concludes Fifth Meeting on Pandemic Accord

The intergovernmental negotiating body concluded its fifth meeting on April 3, 2023, and earlier issued a 'zero draft.' Negotiations have faced challenges over sovereignty, but key norms include equitable sharing of pandemic resources, health system strengthening, coordination and cooperation, and sustainable financing.

2023-04-07

World Health Day 2023

World Health Day 2023 is a global health awareness day celebrated every year on April 7th. It aims to draw attention to important health issues and promote healthier living habits.

2023-04-27

The World Health Organization 75th Anniversary

The World Health Organization celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023.

2024

Vision for Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

In 2024, WHO sets a vision to ensure that no child or adult suffers or dies from a vaccine-preventable disease.

End of the Timeline
World Health Organization