This glossary has been designed to provide a clear, multilingual overview of the core elements of WHO’s organizational structure, with the aim of supporting consistent communication, efficient collaboration and transparent governance.
The terms included in the glossary reflect the current WHO headquarters structure following the outcomes of the 2025 prioritization and realignment exercise, down to the department level. The glossary is a living document and will evolve as the WHO organizational structure evolves.
Users can search across all six languages of the glossary, toggle the language view, and export to PDF using the print options as required. Dark and/or high contrast modes are also available.
The full set of glossary terms can also be accessed via the United Nations online terminology database (UNTERM).
Designed and produced by: WHO Governing Bodies Department/Innovation and Technology team
Prepared by: WHO Governing Bodies Department/Language Services · Edition: 20/02/2026 Sources: WHO/HQ Organigram
