A One Health approach is vital to addressing ongoing multidimensional health challenges, including: emerging infectious diseases and pandemics like COVID-19; the burden of zoonotic diseases; the upsurge of food, land and water safety hazards; the impacts of pollution; the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance; and the degradation of natural ecosystems and biodiversity.
In response to these multidimensional health challenges, the Quadripartite (FAO, UNEP, WHO and WOAH) developed a shared vision for the transformations required to prevent and mitigate the impact of current and future health challenges at global, regional and country levels. This shared vision is part of the One Health Joint Plan of Action.
To catalyse action, it is essential to integrate the One Health approach into relevant development initiatives, such as: pandemic prevention, preparedness and response; improved health systems; animal health and welfare; sustainable food system; and environmental integrity.
It is also vital to consider for inclusion in the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSCDF) the three pathways of change outlined in the Joint Plan of Action, which are as follows:
1: Strengthen policy, legislation, advocacy and financing
2: Enable organizational development, implementation and sectoral integration
3: Strengthen data, evidence and knowledge
Specific suggestions for each pathway are outlined in this guidance note.
