Thirteenth General Programme of Work 2019–2023: promote health, keep the world safe, serve the vulnerable

Overview

The Thirteenth General Programme of Work (GPW 13) defines WHO’s strategy for the five-year period, 2019–2023. It is structured around three interconnected strategic priorities – the triple billion targets – to ensure healthy lives and well-being for all at all ages: achieving universal health coverage, addressing health emergencies and promoting healthier populations.

GPW 13 is based on the SDGs and is relevant to all countries – low, middle and high income. Health is fundamental to the SDGs and, in an interconnected world, WHO’s role in providing global public goods that help to ensure health for all people within and across national boundaries has never been more relevant. WHO’s unique status as a science- and evidence-based organization that sets globally applicable norms and standards makes it vital in a rapidly changing world.

The Organization’s powerful voice for health and human rights is indispensable to ensure that no one is left behind. Broad and sustained efforts are needed to build a community to work for the shared future of humankind, empowering all people to improve their health, address health determinants and respond to health challenges.