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THE STATES Parties to this Constitution declare, in conformity with the
Charter of the United Nations, that the following principles are basic to the
happiness, harmonious relations and security of all peoples:
 Health is a state of complete physical, mental
and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
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.
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.
The achievement of any State in the promotion
and protection of health is of value to all.
Unequal development in different countries in
the promotion of health and control of disease, especially communicable
disease, is a common danger.
Healthy development of the child is of basic
importance; the ability to live harmoniously in a changing total environment
is essential to such development.
The extension to all peoples of the benefits
of medical, psychological and related knowledge is essential to the fullest
attainment of health.
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.
Governments have a responsibility for the
health of their peoples, which can be fulfilled only by the provision of
adequate health and social measures.
ACCEPTING
THESE PRINCIPLES, and for the purpose of co-operation among themselves and
with others to promote and protect the health of all peoples, the Contracting
Parties agree to the present Constitution and hereby establish the World
Health Organization as a specialized agency within the terms of Article 57 of
the Charter of the United Nations.
Link to Complete Constitution
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