Right to Health

Right to Health Hey Mumbai University SYBA IDOL students!  Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN INDIAN SOCIETY , exploring  about – “Right to Health “. We’ll be exploring various aspects of this right, including definitions, key international conventions, and India’s efforts, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. First, we’ll understand how the World Health Organization (WHO) defines health and look at the description of health given by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We’ll also discuss an app launched by the Government of India during the Covid-19 pandemic to help manage the crisis. We’ll then explore what the Right to Social Health means and review some key points from the Child Rights Convention of 1989. Next, we’ll identify two main articles from the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (1976) that focus on children’s rights. Afterward, we’ll discuss the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, and the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), 1965, which outlines women’s rights. Finally, we’ll cover various international declarations and conventions on the right to health, focusing specifically on women and children, and discuss the role of the state in protecting health during the Covid-19 pandemic. So, SYBA IDOL Mumbai University students, get ready to unwrap the  “Right to Health ” with customized IDOL notes  just for you. Let’s jump into this exploration together Check Your Progress:- Question 1 :- How does WHO defines health?  Introduction:      Health is a fundamental aspect of human life that affects our overall well-being and quality of life. It is not just about the absence of illness or disease; rather, it encompasses a broader understanding of what it means to be healthy. The World Health Organization (WHO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, plays a crucial role in defining health and promoting health standards globally. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO’s mission is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health. This definition is vital as it shapes health policies, programs, and practices worldwide. Understanding WHO’s definition of health is essential for recognizing the multifaceted nature of health and the various factors that contribute to it.  WHO’s Definition of Health:         According to the WHO, health is defined as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” This definition highlights several key points: Complete Well-Being: Health is not just about being free from illness. It includes a holistic view of well-being, which means that a person should feel good physically, mentally, and socially. This comprehensive approach recognizes that health is a multi-dimensional concept. Physical Health: This aspect refers to the proper functioning of the body and its systems. It includes maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and having access to necessary medical care. Physical health is often what people think of first when they consider health. Mental Health: Mental health is equally important and involves emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Good mental health allows individuals to cope with stress, relate to others, and make choices. WHO emphasizes that mental health is a crucial component of overall health. Social Well-Being: This aspect refers to the ability to form satisfying interpersonal relationships and adapt to social situations. Social well-being includes having supportive relationships, a sense of belonging, and the ability to contribute to the community. It recognizes that our social environment significantly impacts our health. Not Merely the Absence of Disease: WHO’s definition explicitly states that health is not just about not being sick. Many people may appear healthy but may struggle with mental health issues or social challenges. This point encourages a broader understanding of health that goes beyond physical symptoms. Fundamental Right: The WHO constitution asserts that health is a fundamental right for every human being, regardless of race, religion, or economic status. This principle underlines the importance of equitable access to health services and the need for governments to prioritize health in their policies. Global Health Perspective: WHO’s definition also emphasizes the importance of health on a global scale. Health issues do not respect borders, and many health challenges, such as pandemics, require international cooperation and solutions. This perspective encourages countries to work together to improve health outcomes for all.  Conclusion:       The World Health Organization’s definition of health is a comprehensive and inclusive understanding that goes beyond the mere absence of disease. It encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to health. This definition serves as a guiding principle for health policies and practices worldwide, emphasizing that health is a fundamental right for all individuals. By recognizing the multi-dimensional nature of health, we can better address the various factors that contribute to overall well-being and work towards a healthier society. Question 2 :- State the description of health as given by Universal Declaration of Human rights?  Introduction:      Health is a very important part of our lives. It affects how we live, work, and even how our communities and countries grow. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, recognizes the importance of health. This document lists the basic rights and freedoms that everyone should have. Among these, the right to health is seen as key to living a dignified life. The UDHR guides countries to ensure that everyone has the right conditions to stay healthy. Understanding how health is described in the UDHR helps us see how important it is for governments to protect these rights. 1. Right to an Adequate Standard of Living: The UDHR clearly states that everyone has the right to a standard of living that is good enough for their health and well-being. This means people should have access to basic needs like food, clothing, and housing. These things are essential for staying healthy because they allow people to meet their basic needs. 2. Access to Medical Care: The declaration also stresses that everyone has the right to