The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that over 4.5 billion individuals, constituting more than half of the global population, lack full access to essential health services.
Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, made this announcement during an online media conference addressing critical global health concerns.
Dr Ghebreyesus highlighted the dire situation where two billion people are grappling with financial strains due to out-of-pocket health expenditures.
Addressing the root causes of illness and mortality, Dr Ghebreyesus asserted the indispensable prerequisites of safe drinking water, clean air, adequate nutrition, quality housing, and favorable working and environmental conditions.
Moreover, he advocated for freedom from discrimination as an essential component of health equity.
Reflecting on WHO’s unwavering commitment to advancing global health, Dr Ghebreyesus reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to ensuring the highest attainable standard of health as an inalienable right for all individuals worldwide.
As World Health Day approaches on April 7, commemorating the 76th anniversary of WHO’s constitution, this year’s theme, “My health, my right,” highlights the organization’s foundational principle that health is not a privilege but a universal entitlement.
Dr Ghebreyesus urged citizens worldwide to assert their right to health, echoing the WHO constitution’s groundbreaking assertion that the highest attainable standard of health is a fundamental right for all individuals, irrespective of distinctions.