Millions of people around the world do not have their health needs met because of inequalities, discrimination and human rights violations. We envision a world where all people attain the highest possible standard of health and well-being; where diversity of all kinds is celebrated; human rights are promoted, protected, and fulfilled; gender equality and health equity are the norm; and barriers to health and well-being are addressed.
Our work is articulated around three areas: 1) Health inequities are systematically identified, monitored and addressed; 2) Gender-specific and gender-transformative approaches to health are implemented at scale; and 3) The human right to health and health-related human rights are respected, protected and fulfilled. The department leverages and contributes to WHO’s leadership, technical expertise and country presence to accelerate progress on gender equality, human rights and health equity. It also leads capacity building efforts for mainstreaming gender, equity and human rights in all WHO programmes, working closely with a growing organization-wide network of Gender Equality, Human Rights and Health Equity focal points.
The department supports WHO’s commitment to “leaving no one behind” as essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our work contributes to SDG 3: to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages; SDG 5: to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls; SDG 8: to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all; and SDG 10: to reduce inequality within and among countries.