Advancing the implementation of the One Health approach in the WHO European Region

The health of humans, animals and ecosystems is linked - this has long been noted. With this interconnectedness comes the risk of spreading many types of infectious diseases, as was highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. An integrated One Health approach addresses these linkages and vulnerabilities, aiming to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems through multisectoral and disciplinary collaboration.

To this end, and to deepen One Health advocacy and solicit high-level commitment, WHO/Europe held a high-level briefing as part of the 74th Session of the WHO Europe Regional Committee (RC74) to engage Member States to adopt, adapt and implement the One Health approach based on their context and in line with global and regional priorities.

"At the heart of the European Programme of Work is the commitment to collective action for a healthier Region. One Health plays a key role in this, recognizing the deep connections between human, animal and environmental health. In today's world, where health challenges are more complex than ever, this approach is essential," said Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, as he urged Member States to pursue coordinated action.

Tailoring strategies to address gaps in health

WHO, in collaboration with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) - which together represent the Quadripartite group working to advance the One Health approach - is supporting Member States to adopt regional priorities for a One Health approach, and thereby advance its implementation in the Region.

To this end, WHO/Europe has developed an adaptation guide to enable Member States to tailor strategies to implement a One Health approach that suits specific priorities and addresses country challenges and gaps in health. The guide underscores the critical need for collaborative efforts and innovative, people-centred and evidence-informed approaches to address complex health challenges. The guide is anchored on the 6 regional priorities, including:

1. building and strengthening governance, leadership and partnerships;
2. strengthening prevention and preparedness capacities;
3. promoting and supporting equitable, inclusive and sustainable solutions to tackle inequalities;
4. building evidence on the effectiveness of One Health through data and research;
5. facilitating the allocation of sustainable financing; and
6. cultivating and sustaining core competencies in the One Health approach for the health workforce and other workforces.

"What makes this guide unique is how it addresses the Region's specific challenges. It offers adaptable tools to help countries tailor One Health strategies to their unique contexts," said Dr Maggie de Block, Chair of the WHO One Health Technical Advisory Group.

Countries advancing One Health

Countries across the Region are making great progress in adopting the One Health approach. Denmark, for instance, has been a leader since 1995 with its Integrated Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring and Research Programme. This initiative tracks the use of antibiotics in animals and humans, helping to combat the rise of antimicrobial resistance. Kazakhstan joined the effort in 2018 by developing a national One Health roadmap to improve responses to zoonotic diseases, food safety and biosafety. Full implementation is set for 2025, with a focus on collaboration and integrated research.

Dr Budimir Plavsic, WOAH Regional Representative for Europe and Chair of the Regional One Health Coordination Mechanism, highlighted the vital support available to countries to advance the implementation of One Health. He said, "The European Region has established a robust One Health Coordination Mechanism that provides essential guidance and support to countries. I urge all countries to take full advantage of this mechanism, developed by Quadripartite partners, to improve health outcomes for humans, animals and our shared environment. Together, we can build a healthier future for all."

First Collaborating Centre on One Health in the WHO European Region

In an effort to promote evidence generation and foster collaboration across sectors and countries to advance One Health implementation, WHO/Europe and the University College Dublin have established a Collaborating Centre on One Health in the European Region. The center will leverage research and evidence to shape the implementation of a One Health approach in the Region.

"In the years ahead, we will work to position this centre as a hub for research that leads to action, and work to have teaching that creates real insight and recommendations that transform policy. Our mission is not only to address risks but to actively shape solutions that promote health and well-being for all," said Professor Tony Holohan, Director of the new Collaborating Centre on One Health at University College Dublin.

The One Health approach has emerged as a pivotal foundation not only for preventing and preparing for future pandemics but also for reshaping current health-care practices. With WHO/Europe standing at the forefront of promoting and guiding the operationalization of One Health in the Region, this approach presents an opportunity to dismantle sectoral barriers and nurture interdisciplinary and intersectoral collaboration, coordination, communication and capacity-building to protect and promote health.