According to the World Health Organisation,
in conformity with the Charter of the United Nations, the following
principles are basic to the happiness, harmonious relations and
security of all peoples:
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Health is a state of complete physical, mental
and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease
or infirmity. |
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The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard
of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being
without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic
or social condition. |
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The health of all peoples is fundamental to the
attainment of peace and security and is dependent upon the fullest
co-operation of individuals and States. |
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The achievement of any State in the promotion
and protection of health is of value to all. |
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Unequal development in different countries in
the promotion of health and control of disease, especially communicable
disease, is a common danger. |
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Healthy development of the child is of basic
importance; the ability to live harmoniously in a changing total
environment is essential to such development. |
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The extension to all peoples of the benefits
of medical, psychological and related knowledge is essential
to the fullest attainment of health. |
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Informed opinion and active co-operation on the
part of the public are of the utmost importance in the improvement
of the health of the people. |
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Governments have a responsibility for the
health of their peoples which can be fulfilled only by the
provision of adequate health and social measures.
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Source: WHO (March 2004). Constitution
of the World Health Organization (44th Edition). Available from
http://www.who.int/about/en/.
