The WHO's history spans a period of over six decades, with particular emphasis on the past twenty years. This has been a particularly busy period in WHO's development, given the transition from international to global health cooperation, and thus the need to adapt to important changes in its operating environment. In some cases, WHO has been a direct part of the institutional arrangements that have been created, and has shared the increased funding, provided for global health. In other cases, the organization has had to adapt its activities and programs in response to rival initiatives. This has led to many changes, not only to the name of specific parts of WHO but the nature of their activities; and this second edition attempts to capture some of this institutional complexity.

The Historical Dictionary of the World Health Organization covers the history of the WHO through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 1000 cross-referenced entries on key bodies, programs, events and people. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about the World Health Organization.