Biosecurity in beekeeping

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Animal Biosecurity Association (WABA) Scientific and Information Committee are organizing a new webinar series addressing relevant topics related to the concepts and application of biosecurity in animal populations. The initiative looks at how biosecurity can be consistently and sustainably implemented across educational, institutional, and field settings, contributing to improved animal health and production, One Health and food security.

This webinar explored the critical role of biosecurity in safeguarding bees, which are essential for pollination, food production, and ecosystem health. Bringing together leading international experts, the session provided a global perspective on the major diseases and pests affecting bee populations and examined practical biosecurity measures that can help prevent and control their spread. Participants gained insights into the European experience, where harmonized and beekeeper-oriented approaches are being promoted to strengthen disease prevention and management, as well as lessons from the United States on how evidence-based changes in management practices can significantly reduce colony losses and improve beekeeper resilience. By highlighting both policy and field-level applications, the webinar offered valuable knowledge for beekeepers, veterinarians, researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners seeking to strengthen biosecurity across the apiculture sector.

Webinar presentations

• Biosecurity measures in European beekeeping
  Giovanni Formato, Professor of Apidology, University of Rome Tor Vergata|Head of FAO Reference Centre for Animal Health and Food Security - Apiculture: Health, Biosecurity and AMR
• Prioritizing changes in management practices for US beekeepers
  Nathalie Steinhauer, Research Associate, Oregon State University, Honey Bee Lab
  

More information: Biosecurity

27/10/2026