Regional experts unite to strengthen defenses against animal diseases in Europe and Central Asia

More than 150 animal health experts, policymakers and international partners gathered in Belgrade from 22 to 25 September 2025 for the first Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs) Regional Conference of Standing Groups of Experts on priority transboundary animal diseases in the European region.

The event, supported by the European Union, marked the twentieth anniversary of GF-TADs Europe, a platform led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) to guide coordinated action against animal health threats. The conference brought together all Standing Groups of Experts on six priority diseases: African swine fever, foot-and-mouth disease, lumpy skin disease, peste des petits ruminants, avian influenza and rabies. Over three days, participants shared the latest epidemiological updates, scientific insights and country experiences and reviewed strategies for prevention, control and eradication.

While highlighting progress in disease control, the meeting also underscored the challenges that remain. Recent incursions of foot-and-mouth disease, peste des petits ruminants, and sheep and goat pox – in some cases the first-ever introductions, in others a reappearance after many years – demonstrate the need for constant vigilance, strong veterinary services and cross-border cooperation to protect livestock health and farmers’ livelihoods. Established threats such as avian influenza, African swine fever and rabies also continue to spread despite years of intensive control efforts. Delegates reviewed the innovative tools – including virtual learning platforms, genetic sequencing and simulation exercises – that are helping countries strengthen preparedness and respond more effectively to outbreaks.

The event was preceded by the Twelfth Regional Steering Committee of GF-TADs for Europe, which discussed governance, future priorities and ideas to better align the regional mechanism with global initiatives. “The fight against transboundary animal diseases is a daily effort,” said Viorel Gutu, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia. “It relies on veterinarians, farmers, researchers and policymakers across our region working together to prevent, detect and respond quickly. GF-TADs has shown that regional solidarity makes a real difference. FAO remains committed to supporting countries with technical expertise, training and resources to build resilient animal health systems.”

He stressed that risk-based surveillance, strong veterinary services and regional coordination remain the backbone of an effective response.

Rabies received particular attention, as the meeting coincided with World Rabies Day. At a side event, in front of the veterinary authorities of most countries in Europe and Central Asia, GF-TADs partners underscored that, despite progress, rabies remains endemic across parts of Europe and Central Asia. Two distinct situations were highlighted: wildlife-mediated rabies in the European Union and bordering countries, where oral vaccination campaigns have driven significant progress yet require sustained efforts to avoid resurgence; and dog-mediated rabies in Türkiye, the Caucasus and Central Asia, where systematic dog vaccination and responsible population management remain the most effective tools to prevent human deaths and safeguard livelihoods. Crucially, efforts must not stop in either scenario: Sustained surveillance, vaccination and awareness are essential, because gains can quickly be lost. 

FAO and its partners continue to support countries through the Stepwise Approach towards Rabies Elimination and through training, surveillance and community awareness, with the shared goal of achieving “Zero by 30.”

These diseases can disrupt markets and halt trade overnight. With animal diseases posing risks not only to farmers’ livelihoods and food security but also to public health, wildlife and trade, participants agreed on the urgency of investing in preparedness and prevention. The conference concluded with a call to sustain collaboration and translate scientific knowledge into coordinated action that benefits the entire region.