What role did France play in the development of the World Health Organization (WHO)?

France played a critical role in the development of the World Health Organization (WHO), which is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. The WHO was established in 1948, but the roots of the organization can be traced back to the International Sanitary Conferences held in the 19th century.

France was one of the original signatories of the WHO Constitution and played a significant role in drafting the document. French physician and bacteriologist Dr. Marthe Louise Vogt was a key figure in the WHO's early development, serving as the organization's first Director of the Division of Biological Standards from 1949 to 1956.

In addition to its involvement in the creation of the WHO, France has been an active participant in the organization's efforts to promote global health. France has provided financial and technical support to the WHO's programs and initiatives, and has worked with other member states to address a range of health challenges, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health emergencies.