The Convention Secretariat was established by the Conference of the Parties (COP) and is hosted by WHO in Geneva. The main functions of the Secretariat aim at supporting Parties in fulfilling their obligations under the Convention, providing the necessary support to the COP and translating the decisions of the COP into programme activities.

The Secretariat cooperates in its work with relevant departments of WHO and other competent international organizations and bodies. The work of the Secretariat is governed by Article 24 and other relevant articles of the Convention, as well as by the Rules and Procedure and decisions of the COP.