World Health Organization

Topic: Addressing Mental Health Issues in Public Crises
Working Language: English
Delegation: Double Delegation (60 delegates in total)
Rules of Procedure: Beijing Rules of Procedure (Paper-oriented)
Introduction to Committee and Topic:
Established in 1948, World Health Organization (WHO) is a special agency in the United Nations structure that connects states, partners and people to promote health, strive for safety, and guard the vulnerable. Working with 194 member states, WHO is dedicated to expanding the coverage of universal health – so the highest level of health can be attained by everyone, from everywhere. Nowadays, the agency keeps working on its leverage in global health development, improving everyone’s ability to enjoy good health and well-being.
 

Recent years have witnessed increasing acknowledgement of the significance of mental health, as demonstrated by the inclusion of mental health in the Sustainable Development Goals. Meanwhile, populations in public crises are burdened with much higher risks of mental disorders than we might have thought: approximately one in every five people in crisis-affected area suffers from depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. Treatment, care, and effective emergency response are desperately needed, as access to them isn’t just about improving mental health – it can be a matter of survival.  

Crises bring about challenges, so as long-term momentum for building better mental health systems. The situation is urging us to direct and coordinate global responses to these mental health issues, for integrated protection and overall well-being of all man kind.