The Development Law Service

FAO Participates in World One Health Congress

23/10/2024

The Development Law Service (LEGN) recently took part in the prestigious 8th edition of the World One Health Congress (WOHC) in Cape Town, South Africa between 18 and 21 September. This event was a critical milestone in advancing One Health and strengthening agrifood systems legislation across Southern Africa.

Ms Carmen Bullón, Legal Officer, LEGN, presented the One Health Legislative Assessment Tool (OHLAT) for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in a panel on Governance and AMR. Developed jointly by FAO, UNEP, WHO and WOAH (the Quadripartite), OHLAT is a unique tool that supports countries to revise and strengthen their relevant legislation that is relevant to AMR issues.  

Ms Bullon also participated in a panel discussion on One Health and the Law, where FAO advocated for incorporating One Health as a legal guiding principle in addressing global health challenges. This proposal gained support from international experts, including representatives from Georgetown University and Queensland University of Technology.

The congress, held for the first time in Africa, drew more than 1,400 participants from 87 countries, showcasing over 600 scientific posters and covering a wide range of sectors, including human, animal, and environmental health.

These initiatives reaffirm FAO’s commitment to supporting countries in implementing robust legal frameworks that promote sustainable agrifood systems, address AMR, and enhance public health outcomes through a One Health approach.

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