NGOs and Health

Evolving concepts about health and the articulation of its links to poverty, equity and development have recently widened the range of WHO’s partners. No longer the domain of medical specialists, health work now involves politicians, economists, lawyers, communicators, social scientists and ordinary people everywhere. The involvement of civil society has profoundly affected not only the concepts underpinning public health but the formulation and implentation of public health programmes and policies as well. Nongovernmental organizations and other civil society actors have engaged with WHO to implement health programmes at country level, made outreach to remote areas and populations possible, advocated public health issues to a broad audience, addressed sensitive issues and worked in alliance with WHO to raise funds more effectively.

WHO and Civil Society: Linking for Better Health

Understanding Civil Society Issues for WHO

Strategic alliances - The role of civil society in health

The Civil Society Initiative
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WHO Regional Contacts
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