Does the constitution explicitly guarantee citizens’ right to health?

This map tells us whether nations include provisions to protect the overall right to health for citizens in their constitution.

Only constitutional provisions are included in this map. Legislative protections are not shown here. Read more about why constitutions matter.

Map reflects constitutions in place as of May 2017.

The right to health includes language such as the right to “health,” “health security,” and overall well-being”.

No specific provision means that the constitution does not explicitly mention the right to health. This does not mean that the constitution denies these protections, but that it does not explicitly include them.

Aspirational or subject to progressive realization means that the constitution protects the right to health but does not use language strong enough to be considered a guarantee, or states that these rights will be implemented progressively or within a certain time period. For example, the nation will endeavor to ensure the right to health or will promote the right to health within three years.

Guaranteed right means that the constitution explicitly guarantees the right to health to citizens in authoritative language. For example, constitutions in this category might guarantee citizens’ right to health or make it the State’s responsibility to ensure the protection of health.

Countries