Quadripartite partnership strengthens One Health approach

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), The World Health Organization (WHO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) joined forces in a renewed commitment to One Health with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in March 2022.

This MoU marks a significant step forward in collaborative efforts to address health risks at the animal-human-environment interface. Previously, a tripartite agreement existed between FAO, WOAH (formerly OIE), and WHO. The inclusion of UNEP as a full partner signifies a new era of comprehensive One Health collaboration.

What is One Health?

One Health is a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health. Diseases can easily jump between species, and environmental degradation can contribute to the emergence and spread of new pathogens. A collaborative approach is crucial to effectively address these complex challenges.

What does the new MoU achieve?

• The MoU establishes a legal framework for the four organizations to work together more effectively. This will allow for:
• Improved coordination: By working together, the organizations can avoid duplication of efforts and ensure a more unified approach to One Health challenges.
• Stronger national and regional health systems: The MoU will support the development of robust health systems that can address health risks across human, animal, and plant health sectors.
• A focus on emerging issues: The agreement allows the Quadripartite to focus on critical areas like antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic diseases (diseases transmissible between animals and humans), and the impact of climate change on health.