Leadership and governance

Leadership within the health sector and stewardship when working with non-health sectors, are arguably the most complex functions of any health system. They are also the most critical.

For successful crisis management, national policies should provide a health sector-specific programme, as well as effective coordination structures, partnerships and advocacy. Relevant, up-to-date information for decision-making, public-information strategies and monitoring and evaluation are also needed.

As the lead agency of the United Nations Health Cluster during emergencies, WHO’s function is to promote effective partnerships with others, be they governments, international organizations, civil society or the private sector.

When disasters strike, WHO/Europe works closely with local health authorities to coordinate the humanitarian health response in the Health Cluster/sector, which involves national and international health partners in jointly responding to the health needs of the affected population.