Accelerating globalisation has changed dramatically the context in which WHO works, offering both opportunities and challenges for health and its distribution.1 The transfer of knowledge and technology and the sharing of best practices, treatments, and health strategies provide real benefits to previously unserved populations.2 All countries can benefit from international standards for health and sustained advocacy on their behalf. Globalisation can also benefit health indirectly, promoting gender equality3 and human rights4 and better prospects for trade, information technology, and economic growth.5
But globalisation has also hastened the spread of infectious diseases. Moreover, aspects of global business have promoted unhealthy behaviours, such as eating unhealthy diets and using tobacco. And a major concern with globalisation remains inequalities in health6 and other economic and social indicators,7 both within and among countries.
WHO's work and functions are defined by its constitution and can be categorised as global, national, and intranational. Worldwide, WHO can set standards, develop and run international initiatives, provide professional management, manage financial transfers, and build scientific research capacity. It can also promote public health goods for the benefit of all. These goods include leadership and advocacy for health, instruments to protect bioethics and human rights, methods for disease surveillance, and application of standards.8 Examples include WHO's leadership in developing the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes and the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.