About WHO in Myanmar

The World Health Organization (WHO) was established on 7 April 1948 as the directing and coordinating authority in global public health within the United Nations system. Working at three levels in the Organization (global, regional and country), more than 7000 WHO staff worldwide collaborate with the governments of 194 Member States and other partners to achieve the WHO founding vision of the attainment of the highest possible level of health by all people.

The WHO South East Asia Region (SEAR) includes 11 member states, of which Myanmar is one. The others are: Bangladesh, Bhutan, DPR Korea, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor Leste. The WHO South-East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) is located in New Delhi, India.

Myanmar became a party to WHO's constitution on 1 July 1948. WHO staff in the country office have played a central role in supporting the people and the Government of Myanmar to improve health. The mission of WHO in Myanmar is the attainment of the highest possible level of health by the people of Myanmar. WHO country office Myanmar, led by a Representative, provides technical and financial assistance to, and collaborates with, the Ministry of Health and Sports. WHO provides leadership and technical support to the Ministry of Health and other health partners working in the country. WHO's national and international staff provide support for technical assistance, capacity building, advocacy, policy development, standards and guidelines.

WHO vision and mission

The founding vision of WHO is a world in which all people attain the highest possible standard of health and well-being. The WHO mission is to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable. WHO works with a commitment to human rights, universality and equity, based on the principles espoused in the WHO Constitution.

Core functions of WHO include: providing leadership on matters crucial to health and engaging in partnerships where joint action is needed; shaping the research agenda and stimulating the generation, translation and dissemination of valuable knowledge; setting norms and standards and promoting and monitoring their implementation; articulating ethical and evidence- based policy options; providing technical support to catalyse changes; building sustainable institutional capacity; and monitoring the health situation and assessing health trends.

The mission of WHO in Myanmar is the attainment of the highest possible level of health by the people of Myanmar.

In order to provide effective support, the WHO country office leverages the three levels of the Organization: to focus support where it can make a difference; to place the right people in the right places; to engage partners effectively; to enhance communications; and to improve operational intelligence.

Priorities of WHO

WHO’s general programme of work (GPW) sets medium-term priorities and strategies of the Organization. The World Health Assembly in May 2018 is expected to approve the 13th general programme of work, covering the period 2019–2023. It encompasses a set of three interconnected strategic priorities, strategic shifts and organizational shifts, as well as 10 outcomes to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The three strategic priorities are:

• Universal health coverage: 1 billion more people benefitting from universal health coverage
• Health emergencies: 1 billion more people better protected from health emergencies
• Healthier populations: 1 billion more people enjoying better health and well-being
  

We offer multiple opportunities for people passionate about improving the health for all around the world. From fixed-term international appointments in offices worldwide to generalists, internships and fellowships in regional and country offices, we offer a range of opportunities for people looking to contribute to saving lives. 

Through our global employment portal, you can search for positions in any of our 149 offices. At WHO, we offer a variety of fellowships, study tours and a Health Leadership Development Initiative to prepare health professionals for leadership positions and strengthen national health systems. 

Our Internship and Volunteer Programme also provides opportunities for graduate and postgraduate students to gain insight into the work of WHO, while enriching their knowledge and experience in the health field.

WHO Collaborating Centres in Myanmar

View all current vacancies in the World Health Organization

Office of the WHO Representative in Myanmar

Office address:
World Health Organization No. 403 (A1), Shwe Taung Kyar Street, Bahan Township, Yangon 11201, Myanmar 

Postal address:
World Health Organization No. 403 (A1), Shwe Taung Kyar Street, Bahan Township, Yangon 11201, Myanmar

Telephone number:
+95 (1) 7534 300, 7534 307, 7538 620, 7538 621, 7538 474, 7538 475, 7538 476 GPN Extn.: 24200 (reception)

Fax number:
+95 (1) 7538 233, 7538 435

Office hours:
Monday through Friday (Saturday and Sunday closed) [0830 to 1700 hours (Lunch 1200 to 1230 hours)] 

Email:
[email protected]