WHO urges governments to strengthen the right to health

The World Health Organization’s “My health, my right” campaign calls for universal access to quality health services, education and information, alongside conditions such as safe water, clean air, adequate nutrition and freedom from discrimination. WHO says political inaction, inadequate funding and accountability, and discrimination disproportionately affect people facing poverty, displacement, older age or disability. It also highlights how conflict and climate-related hazards can damage health and disrupt access to essential services.

WHO reports that 4.5 billion people were not covered by essential health services in 2021, while about 2 billion people faced financial hardship because of health costs. It estimates that expanding primary health care in low- and middle-income countries requires an additional US$200–328 billion annually, equivalent to 3.3% of forecast national GDP. Since 2000, 42 countries across regions and income levels have improved both service coverage and protection from catastrophic health spending.

The agency urges governments to invest in primary health care, improve transparency and accountability, and involve communities in health decision-making. These are advocacy calls rather than new clinical guidance; the figures describe global coverage and financing gaps and do not specify effects of particular interventions. WHO also notes that at least 140 countries recognize the right to health in their constitutions, but says recognition alone is insufficient.