2021: International Year of Health and Care Workers

WHO has designated 2021 the International Year of Health and Care Workers (YHCW) in recognition of their dedication to providing care during and despite the COVID-19 pandemic that has challenged health systems worldwide.

Health and care workers include all those engaged in health services, public health and related areas, as well as those providing support to these activities. This varied category of workers encompasses health professionals such as doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists and physiotherapists, but also allied health professionals such as mental health workers, social care workers, occupational health workers, radiographers, laboratory workers and others.

During the 73rd World Health Assembly, Member States spoke to the critical role of health and care workers in ensuring individuals’ and communities’ health and well-being. Member States emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated why all health and care workers are critical to health emergency responses and for health system preparedness and resilience.