The WHO environment

Workforce well-being​

In line with our own healthy living and well-being programmes, WHO promotes mental and physical health through evidence-based initiatives, policies and tools that aim to support our workforce. Our mission is to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable and so we aim to engage our workforce to “walk the talk” and encourage healthy lifestyles and behaviours.​

Dignity respect and a safe environment

WHO is committed to providing a work environment that respects the inherent dignity of all persons. WHO has a responsibility to take all appropriate steps to prevent and respond to harassment, including sexual harassment, discrimination and abuse of authority (collectively referred to as “abusive conduct”) in the workplace or in connection with work. WHO has zero tolerance towards abusive conduct, and all forms of abusive conduct are prohibited at WHO.​

WHO’s code of ethics and professional conduct​

Along with the right of every person to be treated with dignity and respect and to work in a safe environment free from abusive conduct, every person has a corresponding responsibility to actively promote such an environment and to behave in accordance with WHO’s principles. WHO’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct articulates how staff and anyone working under a WHO contract are required to conduct themselves in a professional manner that demonstrates courtesy, common decency and cultural sensitivity, and to treat with dignity and respect all persons with whom they interact as part of their work with WHO.