World Obesity Federation

Who we are

The World Obesity Federation, headquartered in London, is the global organization in official relations with WHO and with member organizations in more than 100 countries.  World Obesity represents stakeholders in high-, medium- and low-income countries, including experts, advocates, patients and practitioners. It is a lead partner to global agencies on obesity, including the World Health Organization (WHO) – with which it has formal consultative status, approved by the World Health Assembly. The World Obesity Federation takes a holistic view of obesity from cause and prevention to treatment.

In 2019, the World Obesity Federation’s strategic plan for the period 2020-25 was established to align its five-year plan around key WHO and UN targets.  These included the WHO target for zero increase in adult and childhood obesity prevalence by 2025, and the Sustainable Development Goals to achieve a one-third reduction in premature non-communicable disease (NCD) mortality by 2030 and to end malnutrition in all its forms. Four strategic goals were established for the Federation: to lead global advocacy for obesity; to convene obesity stakeholders globally; to train and build capacity in obesity; and to collect and disseminate knowledge on obesity. The plan delivered with great success on its KPIs and key areas – including World Obesity Day, global advocacy, training and data – position WOF as a global authority and catalyst for knowledge and action on obesity. Specific programmes include SCOPE (Strategic Centre for Obesity Professional Education), World Obesity Day, Obesity MAPPS, the International Congress on Obesity, Global Obesity Coalition, and advocacy to build capacity and deliver on the WHO Acceleration Plan to STOP Obesity.   WOF also encourages the development of new obesity organizations where none exist, including the Middle East North Africa Obesity Association which will launch in November 2024.

WOF represents organizations in more than 100 countries and is a global authority in obesity education, data, and advocacy.  At the same time it is managed by a small team, including remote staff and with trusted consutlants and partners.  Volunteer experts play a central role in shaping and guiding work in education and advocacy, and in governance via a 15-member Board led by a President and with delegated authority of an annual workplan. 

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

World Obesity celebrates fostering a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, parental status or veteran status.