The private sector and philanthropic foundations
As the private sector is an important actor in health care, the WHO EMRO works with the private sector (albeit to a limited extent) both regionally and within countries. WHO works with for-profit entities in the following ways:
- Participation with one or more companies in alliances and other types of partnerships (sometimes with other public bodies, governmental and nongovernmental organizations, and foundations) to address specific health problems;
- information sharing;
- research and development to improve human health;
- generating financial and non-financial contributions to the work of WHO;
- advocacy for health.
WHO carefully selects possible partners among private sector entities, respecting well-established internal mechanisms. WHO’s work affects the commercial sector in a number of ways, for example, through guidance on health aspects, recommendations on standards, or other interventions that may affect the value of products, market demand, or the profitability of specific products and services.
WHO’s values and reputation are of great importance in developing relationships with for-profit corporations. Private sector partners working with WHO must comply with WHO policies in areas such as food and chemical safety, ethical practices in the commercial promotion of medicines, tobacco control, etc.
As the private sector is an important actor in health care, the WHO EMRO works with the private sector (albeit to a limited extent) both regionally and within countries.
