World Health Assembly adopts landmark Pandemic Agreement, embracing One Health approach
Foxes on a fur farm in Mylnek, Poland
Image: Four Paws
In a landmark decision that could reshape global health policy, the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva has officially adopted the Pandemic Agreement, marking the first time the One Health approach—a concept that underscores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health—has been enshrined in an international, legally binding framework.
Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS has applauded this development as a crucial step towards preventing pandemics right at their source, urging all nations to not only sign the treaty but also to swiftly implement its provisions.
Nina Jamal, Head of Pandemics and Campaign Strategies at FOUR PAWS, highlighted the significance of this agreement.
"Today, WHO member states adopted a historic global instrument and committed to tackling the drivers of pandemics at their source, significantly reducing the risk of future outbreaks before humans and animals suffer," she said, emphasising that animal welfare is now recognised as a key component in safeguarding human health.
'This adoption marks a watershed moment, anchoring animal welfare as essential for protecting human health. It shows that global health policy is evolving to include measures beyond symptom control and addresses issues before disease outbreaks burden health systems.'
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Mink Farm in Poland.
Image: FOUR PAWS
This newly adopted treaty not only reiterates the importance of animal welfare in health policy but also represents a strong commitment to international collaboration in confronting global challenges. By embracing the One Health approach officially, governments worldwide are encouraged to develop multisectoral strategies that acknowledge the intricate links between human well-being, animal health, and environmental stability.
FOUR PAWS underscores the alarming reality that over 70% of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate from animals, influenced by human actions towards the treatment of animals and their habitats. Jamal pointed to the ongoing threat posed by zoonotic diseases, such as the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, which has recently affected dairy cattle in the US and has been linked to significant health risks for both animals and humans. The stark reality is that conditions in factory farms exacerbate these risks, allowing for the proliferation and mutation of viruses involved in outbreaks.
Examples of the dire consequences of ignoring animal welfare abound; in 2023, over 500,000 animals—including mink, foxes, and raccoon dogs—were euthanised on fur farms in Finland, while 141 million poultry were killed or euthanised globally in 2022 as part of efforts to contain the H5N1 outbreak. Jamal suggested that transitioning to smaller farms with improved animal welfare could mitigate such risks, ultimately lowering disease transmission and reducing both animal suffering and economic losses.
Broiler chicken farm investigation in December 2020 in east England. The investigation took place on one of Britain's mega farms. As calculations of flock and building size have revealed, more than 22 birds are kept per square metre of floor space. Many of the birds are visibly sick and forced to live miserable lives.
Image: Four Paws
'When they suffer, we suffer,' Jamal emphasised, calling for an evaluation of high-risk practices such as habitat destruction, wildlife trade, and the deplorable conditions prevalent in factory farming. Countries that have successfully implemented the One Health approach, like Uganda—with its National One Health Platform—illustrate the effectiveness of interministerial collaboration in preventing zoonotic disease outbreaks. With a track record of addressing zoonotic threats such as Ebola and anthrax, Uganda prioritises disease prevention and preparedness, serving as a pioneering example for others to follow.
The call to action is clear: as the world grapples with changing health dynamics, the emphasis on One Health is more critical than ever.
FOUR PAWS advocates that recognising this interconnectedness is not merely an ideal but a necessary approach to safeguard public health moving forward.
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