FAO Reference Centres unite for inaugural annual dialogue to strengthen global animal health networks

Animal diseases threaten both food security and human health worldwide. FAO's network of Reference Centres plays a crucial role in combating these diseases by providing technical expertise, supporting early detection, and enhancing disease control measures. With 66 Reference Centres spanning 27 thematic areas, this network represents the frontline of international efforts to prevent and control animal diseases that could devastate livestock populations and threaten human health.

The timing of this inaugural dialogue is particularly significant, following the successful FAO Global Conference on Animal Health Innovation, Reference Centres and Vaccines held in September 2024, which generated renewed interest in the untapped potential of these specialized institutions. The recent publication of new FAO Reference Centre regulations in April 2024 has also created fresh opportunities for more efficient processes while bringing new challenges that require collective attention.

Building on recent success

The momentum for this annual dialogue stems from the FAO Global Conference which provided a forum for FAO Members to discuss major challenges and priorities in animal health and One Health. With the active participation of reference centres, vaccine developers and manufacturers, veterinary laboratories, research institutions, and development partners, it served as a collaborative platform to develop targeted solutions, foster innovation to tackle global and regional issues.

Key objectives of the annual dialogue

The virtual meeting will focus on five critical areas:

• Success story sharing: Reference Centre leaders will present their most impactful collaborations with FAO member countries, highlighting innovative approaches to disease prevention and control that can be replicated across different regions.
• Service coordination: The dialogue will establish a systematic approach to match service offerings from Reference Centres with specific country support needs, ensuring that expertise reaches where it's most urgently required.
• Training and capacity building: Participants will update lists of training services, e-learning programmes, virtual learning opportunities, and external quality assurance services that will be made publicly available through the FAO website.
• Regulatory guidance: With new regulations in place, the meeting will provide clarity on renewal procedures and administrative processes, helping Reference Centres better plan for the upcoming year and avoid potential challenges.
• Operational efficiency: The forum will address current challenges and explore solutions to enhance the overall efficiency of the Reference Centre network.

Strategic importance for global health

The FAO Reference Centres for animal health are institutions designated by the Director-General to provide specific and technical device and services to FAO Member Countries on issues related to FAO's mandate. These centres serve as specialized nodes of expertise, each focusing on specific diseases or technical areas where their knowledge can have the greatest impact on global animal health.

The network's expansion goals include increasing regional representation and developing new thematic areas, making this dialogue crucial for ensuring sustainability and efficient collaboration across all participating institutions. As the world faces increasing challenges from emerging diseases, climate change impacts on animal health, and the need for enhanced food security, the role of these Reference Centres becomes ever more critical.

Looking forward

The outcomes of this inaugural dialogue will include a meeting report made publicly available, along with updated lists of training programmes, project opportunities, and quality assurance services offered by the Reference Centre network. This ensures that member countries can easily access the expertise and support they need to strengthen their own animal health systems.