Our values

Our values

WHO/E. Jalil
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Our values, our DNA

WHO, as the directing and coordinating authority on international health within the United Nations system, adheres to the UN values of integrity, professionalism and respect for diversity.

The values of the WHO workforce furthermore reflect the principles of human rights, universality and equity established in WHO’s Constitution as well as the ethical standards of the Organization.

These values are inspired by the WHO vision of a world in which all peoples attain the highest possible level of health, and our mission to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable, with measurable impact for people at country level. We are individually and collectively committed to put these values into practice.



Trusted to serve public health at all times

  • We put people’s health interests first
  • Our actions and recommendations are independent
  • Our decisions are fair, transparent and timely

Professionals committed to excellence in health

  • We uphold the highest standards of professionalism across all roles and specializations
  • We are guided by the best available science, evidence and technical expertise
  • We continuously develop ourselves and innovate to respond to a changing world

Persons of integrity

  • We practice the advice we give to the world
  • We engage with everyone honestly and in good faith
  • We hold ourselves and others accountable for words and actions

Collaborative colleagues and partners

  • We engage with colleagues and partners to strengthen impact at country level
  • We recognize and use the power of diversity to achieve more together
  • We communicate openly with everyone and learn from one another

People caring about people

  • We courageously and selflessly defend everyone’s right to health
  • We show compassion for all human beings and promote sustainable approaches to health
  • We strive to make people feel safe, respected, empowered, fairly treated and duly recognized

Posters - WHO Value Charter

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WHO Values Charter