This book considers the role of and the need for primary health care leadership, drawing upon case studies and research from the World Health Organization (WHO) communities. The differing levels and functions of leadership in primary health care are delineated, with particular emphasis given to regarding the leadership concept as "effective management." Twelve case studies are presented of primary health care programs in WHO member countries and functions of the programs and training programs to develop leadership are detailed. The first three reports, from Bulgaria, the Dominican Republic, and Viet Nam, are general accounts of national primary health care programs. Reports from Cuba, Finland, Papua New Guinea, and Somalia analyze one sample locality in a national primary health care program. Projects in Bangladesh, France, Kenya, Liberia, and the Philippines are analyzed in terms of one or more special primary health care projects in a given country. A chapter on "Levels and Functions of Leadership" includes consideration of planning and setting objectives, recruitment and training of primary health workers, promotion of community involvement, and evaluation of such programs. The chapter on "Requirements for Effective Leadership" discusses variations among countries and individuals, adequate resources for leadership, personal characteristics of leaders, and prerequisite education and experience. (CB)