Governance Reform at WOAH

Report of the Governance Review Committee to the World Assembly of Delegates – 93rd General Session (2026)

As WOAH prepares for the 93rd General Session in May this year, the Governance Review Committee (GRC) has released its 2026 report outlining proposals to modernise and strengthen the Organisation’s governance framework. Developed through extensive Member consultation and regional engagement, these recommendations will be submitted to the World Assembly of Delegates (WOAH Assembly) for consideration and decision, marking a milestone in the ongoing governance review. The report reflects both the progress achieved during Phase 1 of the Committee’s work and the collective commitment of Members to building a more transparent, efficient and inclusive Organisation.

Progress to Date (May 2025 – March 2026)

Over the past year, the GRC has held six meetings and launched two subgroups to codify WOAH’s mandate and review the organisation and governance of its technical bodies. It has also carried out consultations with all five Regional Commissions, ensuring that regional perspectives and priorities remain central to shaping the Committee’s proposed reforms.

Seven Recommendations for Member Consideration

In its 2026 report, the Committee has put forward seven recommendations for consideration by the WOAH Assembly at its 93rd General Session in May 2026. In line with Resolution No. 5 (2025), these proposals aim to strengthen WOAH’s institutional, regional and financial governance.

The recommendations are to:

• Increase transparency regarding WOAH Members’ financial contributions and arrears.
• Launch a consultation and analysis process on moving from WOAH’s self-selection statutory contribution model to a compulsory, formula-based system.
• Clarify and reinforce WOAH’s sanctions model for Members in arrears.
• Expand the ability of delegation members to speak and vote at the General Session with the Delegate’s authorisation.
• Modernise the roles and functions of Regional Commissions and their Bureaus.
• Transform the Past President seat on the WOAH Council into an elected position.
• Introduce a three-tier, risk-based framework for cooperation agreements, allowing the Council and Director General to finalise certain agreements under defined conditions.

Together, these recommendations aim to clarify key aspects of WOAH’s governance, improve the  consistency of oversight, strengthen financial arrangements and update roles and processes across the Organisation.

Strong Member Engagement and Phase 1 Extension

Member engagement has been central to the GRC’s work. Active participation from all regions has helped shape the Committee’s proposals and ensure they reflect shared priorities. Building on this momentum, Phase 1 has been extended to the 94th General Session in 2027, allowing the GRC to continue refining its work through inclusive consultation and sustained collaboration with Members.

What’s Next?

The GRC report will be presented during the WOAH’s virtual Regional Commissions meetings in May, offering Members another opportunity to exchange views on the Committee’s recommendations. The proposals will then be formally considered by the WOAH Assembly during the 93rd General Session in May.

Key Dates to Watch

• Virtual Regional Commissions meetings: May (several dates)
• Next GRC Meeting (GRC 10): 14–15 May 2026
• 93rd General Session: 18–22 May 2026

Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us in shaping the future of WOAH governance. Together, we are building a stronger, more transparent Organisation that advances animal health and welfare for a healthier, more sustainable world.

To learn more, explore the GRC Report to the 93rd General Session and the GRC website.

Contact: GRC Secretariat ([email protected])