FESASS at the WOAH Regional Conference in Latvia
The Regional Commission for Europe of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) met from 21 to 25 September in Jūrmala, Latvia. FESASS participated in the event, with President Stéphane JEANNE, First Vice-President Lotte ROOS, and Secretary General Alain CANTALOUBE in attendance.
The agenda was particularly relevant to our Federation. The first technical topic focused on the harmonisation of biosecurity measures. Based on a questionnaire, the responses from European countries demonstrated a strong commitment to this issue. However, there are significant disparities. For example, much remains to be done, particularly regarding ruminants. The Regional Commission adopted a recommendation calling for continued efforts in this area.
The second technical topic focused on preparedness for and response to Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Sheep and Goat Pox (SGP). This issue is of vital importance as both diseases are present in the Balkans and pose a threat to other Member States. Our federation was able to share its concerns, highlighting in particular the importance for disease-free Member States to prepare in advance and develop appropriate biosecurity plans for small ruminants. The Regional Commission also adopted a recommendation encouraging stronger preparedness for the emergence of these diseases and the use of emergency vaccination where appropriate. The priority is to be able to respond as soon as these diseases emerge.
Other relevant topics were also addressed, including veterinary emergency management and the usefulness of economic analysis in animal health management decisions. Here too, our federation contributed to the discussions, emphasising the importance of involving farmers and their organisations, as well as the need to mobilise all stakeholders across the livestock sector to ensure cross-sectoral funding for animal health security, alongside public funding and farmers’ contributions.
On the sidelines of the conference, FESASS met with Dr Emmanuelle SOUBEYRAN, Director General of WOAH, and her Deputy Director General, Dr François CAYA. Discussions focused on the value of public-private partnerships for collective animal health action and the involvement of livestock farmers’ organisations.
Finally, the conference provided an opportunity to connect with animal health officials from European countries, representatives of the European Commission, as well as our colleagues from the FVE and AnimalHealthEurope. The organisation of the event was excellent, facilitating exchanges and ensuring efficient and productive work.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude and congratulations to the Latvian authorities, the country’s veterinary service, and the WOAH teams for this outstanding event.