WHO defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Making health for all a reality, and moving towards the progressive realization of human rights, requires that all individuals have access to quality health care, including comprehensive abortion care services – which includes information, management of abortion, and post-abortion care. Lack of access to safe, timely, affordable and respectful abortion care poses a risk to not only the physical, but also the mental and social, well-being of women and girls.

WHO, founded in 1948, is the United          Nations agency that connects nations, partners and people to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable – so everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health. 

 WHO’s work remains firmly rooted in the basic principles of the right to health and well-being for all people, as outlined in our constitution. The World Health Assembly is the decision-making body of WHO and is attended by delegations from all Member States.