As defence budgets soar to US$ 2.9 trillion, report warns aid cuts leave the world dangerously exposed to transboundary diseases, food insecurity and the next pandemic.

MAY 13, PARIS — The world is failing to invest in animal health despite mounting evidence that the cost of inaction far exceeds the cost of prevention, according to the annual State of the World’s Animal Health report. 

The report, published by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) on the margins of its 93rd General Session, is the only annual global assessment of animal health trends, risks and challenges.  

It highlights that animal diseases destroy more than 20 percent of ​​global animal production each year. These impacts are felt most acutely in low- and middle-income countries, where animal health plays a critical role in sustaining livelihoods, food security and economic resilience. At the same time, insufficiently resourced systems struggle to detect and respond to diseases early, while also facing challenges in maintaining animal welfare standards. 

Recent reductions in international aid budgets are compounding the pressure. Development assistance for health has declined to approximately US$ 39.1 billion in 2025, with animal health accounting for less than 2.5 percent of that total. Over the same period, global defence spending reached a record of US$ 2.9 trillion. In this context, strengthening animal health systems – the shared infrastructure that guards against naturally emerging diseases, accidental releases and deliberate biological threats alike – remains underfunded, despite their essential role in managing cross-border risks, including emerging diseases and biological threats. 

The report highlights that bringing Veterinary Services in every country up to international standards would cost approximately US$ 2.3 billion per year, less than 0.05 percent of the US$ 3.6 trillion in economic losses attributed to COVID-19 in 2020, a disease that most likely emerged from an animal source, while the precise origin and transmission route to humans has not been definitively established. 

“Animal health systems sit at the very centre of food security, economic stability, welfare and human health, and yet are chronically underfunded,” said Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General of WOAH. “The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of stronger investment in prevention and the One Health approach. One Health will remain an aspiration until animal health is genuinely built into how we plan and invest — long before the next crisis arrives.“ 

More than 2,000 outbreaks of high pathogenicity avian influenza were reported by 64 countries and territories between 2025 and 2026, resulting in the culling or loss of more than 140 million poultry. Foot and mouth disease has caused unprecedented outbreaks in Southern Africa and re-emerged in Europe. African swine fever continues to spread, including through notable long-distance jumps. And the New World screwworm — a flesh-eating parasitic fly — is also raising serious concern, with tens of thousands of cases reported across Central America and a northward spread that poses a threat to animal health beyond the countries currently affected. 

Seventy-five per cent of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate in animals, making animal health systems the world’s first line of defence against outbreaks, including a potential next pandemic. However, the report indicates that these systems are under strain, with 18 percent of countries recently assessed showing declining veterinary capacity, and 22 percent showing declining paraprofessional capacity. 

“What we are observing goes beyond the spread of disease and also reflects increasing pressure on surveillance networks and emergency response capacities, particularly in regions most exposed to animal health risks,” said Dr Paolo Tizzani, Senior Veterinary Epidemiologist at WOAH. “When Veterinary Services are under-resourced, diseases are detected late, spread more widely, and cost more to contain – regardless how they started. Strengthening these systems is therefore an important and effective way for governments and partners to reduce risks and improve preparedness.” 

Based on 54 countries and territories assessed by WOAH, it is estimated that an average 52 percent budget increase would be required to meet the actual annual cost of effective Veterinary Services. WOAH’s Performance Veterinary Services Pathway (PVS) provides countries with independent assessment of their animal health systems and a tailored roadmap for improvement. In a positive development, following recent PVS activities, more than half of participating countries reported an increase in financial resources.  

The report calls on governments to increase funding for animal health systems and integrate it into broader health, economic and security strategies; on development partners to align funding with long-term prevention rather than crisis response; and on financial institutions as well as the private sector to recognise animal health as a high-impact investment. 

“Animal health systems are a global public good, and the world is not funding them like one,” concluded Dr Susana Pombo, WOAH’s President of the World Assembly of Delegates, “At a moment when governments are increasing defence budgets it is worth asking what animal health actually means in this context. Disease does not recognise borders. A gap in animal health surveillance in one country is a vulnerability for every country, hence a shift of how we think about solidarity and investment in animal health systems is critical.” 

The report’s findings will underpin discussion at the upcoming 93rd General Session of the World Assembly of Delegates (May 18-22), notably within the WOAH Technical Forum dedicated this year to the theme “Investing in Animal Health to Secure Everyone’s Future.” A ministerial meeting will also take place on the margins of the Opening Ceremony, including the release of a ministerial statement reflecting a shared vision on animal health systems. 

Notes to editors
For a copy of the report, interview requests and further information, contact:  

Gerrit Beger | Director of Communication 
[email protected] | +33 7 49 33 37 21 

Elise Pierrat | Communication Manager 
[email protected] | +33 6 69 51 84 00 

A press conference to launch the report will be held on Wednesday 13 May,
13.00–14.00 CET, at WOAH Headquarters, 12 rue de Prony, Paris. WOAH leadership will provide live commentary on the report’s findings, ahead of the 93rd General Session of the World Assembly of Delegates (18–22 May). The event can be joined remotely via Zoom, with simultaneous interpretation available in French and Spanish. Journalists joining in person are invited for lunch from 12.30, with the opportunity to speak directly with panellists after the session. Register to attend online or in person. 

About the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) 

WOAH is the global authority on animal health and welfare. Established in 1924 in response to the devastating rinderpest outbreak in Belgium—which was part of a broader epidemic that affected several European countries and had global repercussions—WOAH has remained dedicated to monitoring, controlling, and disseminating information on animal diseases worldwide. WOAH focuses on transparently disseminating information on animal diseases, improving animal health globally and thus building a safer, healthier and more sustainable world. https://www.woah.org/en/home 

About the Animal Health Forum at WOAH’s 93rd General Session of the World Assembly 

The Animal Health Forum, “Investing in Animal Health to Secure Everyone’s Future.”, will highlight the strategic role of animal health in economic stability, food security and global health resilience. It will explore solutions ranging from national resources prioritisation and innovative financial partnerships to private sector engagement and research-based innovation. 

27 October 2025, Paris – Amid growing concern over a fragile and conflict-prone world, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) will host a landmark global gathering to advance inclusive dialogue and the formation of transformative alliances for a more secure, healthier future.

The Global Conference on Biological Threat Reduction will take place on 28-30 October 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. Bringing together experts from a variety of fields, the event will offer a platform to discuss rising security risks and strategies to bridge the biological threat reduction gap.  

Animal pathogens continue to cause devastation worldwide, with the risks associated with their misuse continuing to be real and evolving. The data paint a staggering picture: with over 75% of emerging diseases and 80% of agents with bioterrorist potential being zoonotic in nature, animal health emerges as a key pillar of global health security. Other figures show that production animals account for 40% of the global agriculture value, and nearly 1 in 5 people depend on production animals for their income.

In our increasingly connected and complex world, global health security is also a matter of national security, which makes veterinarians the frontline of defense. Yet, protecting against biological threats requires united action across sectors: security, human, animal and environmental health.

Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General at WOAH.

The interconnectedness between animal, human and environmental health and security underscore the urgent need to prepare for unpredictable scenarios that could quickly escalate into disasters. In 2019, the Global Health Security Index warned that most countries were not ready for a serious outbreak. Less than a year later, the COVID-19 pandemic caught the world off guard, showing how fundamentally weak public health systems were in the face of an unprecedented crisis.  Though not intentional, COVID-19 serves as a powerful reminder of how profoundly a biological agent – if weaponised – could disrupt economies and societies on a global scale.

Today, fast-advancing technologies such as artificial intelligence and synthetic biology add new urgency to action. Regulation is also being outpaced by the speed of technological advances. With fractured barriers to access and development, it has become increasingly possible for anyone with a malicious intent to create and deploy bioweapons. Animals, in particular, could become targets of malicious attacks designed to destabilise food systems and economies.

Over three days, the conference will explore cross-cutting themes high on the global policy agenda. From climate change to misinformation, from cybersecurity to laboratory sustainability, little is off the table. Hosted at the CICG Conference Centre, near Geneva’s Palace of Nations, the event will foster discussions on the roles that different sectors working in unison can play to prevent and respond to biological threats.

WOAH has a vast lead in advancing biological threat reduction. Flagship initiatives including ‘Building Resilience against Agro-crime and Agro-terrorism’ in partnership with FAO and INTERPOL and ‘Fortifying Institutional Resilience against Biological Threats’, funded by the government of Canada, have helped strengthen national preparedness and institutional capacities in the face of an unpredictable future. WOAH also works closely in collaboration with WHO on laboratory biological risk management, sustainable laboratories (BioPrevail) and Dual Use Research of Concern/promoting responsible conduct in science.

“The eradication of rinderpest, a deadly livestock disease – the first major achievement in animal health and the very reason WOAH was founded – has showed the world what global collaboration can accomplish. It reminds us that only through collective effort and trust was it possible to eliminate a devastating disease,” said Soubeyran.  

As 2025 marks an important year in disarmament with the 50th anniversary of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention and the 100th anniversary of the Geneva Protocol, WOAH’s conference is poised to inspire fruitful collaborations and stronger national commitments to biological threat reduction plans.

“In a world shaped by geopolitical shifts and rising risks enabled by technology, animal health is something we should protect at all costs,” concluded Soubeyran. “It’s not just about animal health – it’s about our security, too. By strengthening biological threat reduction, we protect entire communities. We protect our shared planet.”

Notes to editors: To arrange any interviews/briefings, please contact: Communication Department, World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), [email protected].

Geneva, Switzerland – BioPREVAIL, a One Health Security innovation initiative for sustainable laboratories launched a call for proposals to its inaugural design sprint, the BioPREVAIL Built Environment Design Challenge, to identify promising innovations that offer viable solutions to the challenge of laboratory sustainability worldwide. Individuals and organisations are encouraged to apply by August 15 for priority consideration, with August 31 as the final deadline for submissions.

BioPREVAIL seeks proposals from entities interested in revolutionizing the way diagnostic containment laboratories are built. The ultimate goal is to enhance the capacity of  local communities and countries seeking to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease outbreaks caused by especially dangerous pathogens (EDPs). Priority will be given to solutions that are sufficiently developed to enter a design sprint and pilot phase within six months. However, applicants are welcome to submit solutions at any stage of development – from concept to commercialisation.

The BioPREVAIL Built Environment Design Challenge is a new initiative under the broader BioPREVAIL program, which is focused on evolving the design, construction and operation of diagnostic containment laboratories, particularly those in countries and regions that face resource constraints. The initiative is hosted by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), with the Global Health Security Fund serving as the secretariat. Support for the Built Environment Design Challenge is provided through Global Affairs Canada’s Weapons Threat Reduction Program, in support of the G7-led Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction (GP).

In today’s interconnected, hazard-prone world, the same laboratories that protect us from disease are a threat to health and security if they are not sustainable. “This is an issue for many of our members,” shares Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General at WOAH. “This initiative will help us reassess how to best support communities affected by infectious disease outbreaks, advancing efforts to reduce risks across human, animal and environmental health.”

“An enhanced type of diagnostic laboratory – specifically designed for operation and maintenance in low-resource environments – can accelerate the implementation of global standards and the health security agenda,” Soubeyran continues.

This is a global health initiative for everyone’s health and security.  By bridging health and security, we can build systems that are truly resilient and future-proof. The urgency is real – change must begin now.

Emmanuelle Soubeyran,
Director General, WOAH.

The sustainable labs initiative now known as BioPREVAIL began more than a decade ago, with substantial contributions from WOAH (which helped define the challenges facing laboratories worldwide), Global Affairs Canada’s Weapons Threat Reduction Program and the Government of the United Kingdom. BioPREVAIL, which launched in 2024 at the General Assembly of WOAH, seeks to spark a paradigm shift in how the world approaches the management of dangerous pathogens, and to ground laboratory operations in resource-appropriate facilities with sustainable practices. From Africa to Asia, from urban settings to remote regions and communities worldwide, a new type of diagnostic containment laboratory has the potential to save lives, prevent the next pandemic and enhance biological security to mitigate risks posed by the illicit acquisition and deliberate use of disease as a weapon.

“Diagnostic containment laboratories play a vital role in global efforts to prevent, detect and respond to biological threats, whether natural, accidental or deliberate in origin” shares Trevor Smith, Chair of the Biological Security Working Group of the 31-member Global Partnership. “However, most containment labs were designed in and for high-resource countries, and current designs and approaches are not well-suited for sustainable operation and maintenance in resource-constrained settings. BioPREVAIL aims to change this, by pioneering a new type of secure, safe, and effective biocontainment facility that can be more easily, reliably and independently maintained and sustained in diverse environments”. 

The BioPREVAIL Built Environment Design Challenge is open to applicants globally, including researchers, nonprofits, startups, engineers, architects, and interdisciplinary teams. Applications may include advanced concepts, prototypes, or applied research with clear plans for practical validation. Early-stage ideas without a credible pathway to implementation are less likely to be prioritized but may be considered.

BioPREVAIL has the potential to revolutionise global health security, giving autonomy back to local communities highly impacted by especially dangerous pathogens.

Dr. Lisa McDonald, President of Global Health Security Fund.

“The next infectious disease crisis may emerge from nature, but it could also spill accidentally from a laboratory or be caused deliberately with pathogens acquired from an insecure facility. BioPREVAIL has the potential to significantly reduce the risks posed by all of these scenarios.”

Applications will be reviewed by a panel composed of BioPREVAIL team members and technical experts. Selected submissions may be invited to receive technical mentorship, partnership discussions, and/or exploratory support—though submission does not guarantee funding or collaboration.

All applications must be submitted no later than August 31 at 11:59 p.m. CEST through the BioPREVAIL StartupTree portal. Interested applicants may register for the August 5th information session.

About Canada’s Weapons Threat Reduction Program and the Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction
The Weapons Threat Reduction Program (WTRP) is Canada’s flagship contribution to the G7-led Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction (GP, gpwmd.com). Since 2002, the WTRP has delivered more than $1.7 billion in projects to address chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) proliferation and terrorism threats. Established at the first Kananaskis Summit (2002) as the G8’s signature response to the terror attacks of September 2001 in the United States, the now 31-member GP implements CBRN threat reduction programming in vulnerable countries and regions across the globe. To learn more, visit Non-proliferation, arms control, and disarmament efforts.

About the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) is the global authority on animal health, dedicated to improving animal health worldwide and building a safer, healthier, and more sustainable world. Founded in 1924 as the Office International des Epizooties (OIE), the international organisation adopted the common name World Organisation for Animal Health in May 2023 and is proud to champion the One Health approach in all its work. Together, the Organisation and its Members coordinate the global response to animal health emergencies, the prevention of zoonotic diseases, the promotion of animal health and welfare, and better access to animal health care. To learn more, visit woah.org.

About Global Health Security Fund (GHS Fund) 
Based in Geneva, the Global Health Security Fund (GHS Fund) is a nonprofit organisation combining venture capital and entrepreneurship principles with traditional philanthropy to identify and scale the most promising locally driven global health innovations. We identify global health security innovations and validate innovations based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) impact and investment potential, connecting market-ready innovations with investors. To learn more, visit GHSFund.org. Join the conversation @GHSFund.  

Media Contact:
Ashley Schlosser
BioPREVAIL Media Relations & Communications
(512) 968-0562
[email protected]

29 May 2025, Paris, France – The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has officially designated International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) as its first Collaborating Centre for One Health, recognising ILRI as a global leader in addressing critical challenges at the intersection of animal, human, and environmental health.  

ILRI is a CGIAR center co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia with HQs in Addis Ababa and Nairobi and 14 offices across Asia and Africa  ILRI has a long-standing record of using a One Health approach to address challenges at the animal, human, and environmental interfaces in low- and middle-income countries.  

A Milestone for Integrated One Health Approach 

Speaking at WOAH’s 92nd General Session, ILRI Director General, Appolinaire Djikeng, stated, “We are honoured by WOAH’s designation of ILRI as a Collaborating Centre for One Health. This recognition reinforces our commitment to leveraging livestock research for healthy people, healthy animals and healthy ecosystems. 

Through our networks across Africa and Asia, ILRI will continue to work with partners to provide the One Health solutions that improve animal health management, drive innovations, mitigate emerging global threats and build sustainable resilience in food systems globally. In addition, ILRI seeks to strengthen the evidence base for addressing climate-related health challenges through the application of a One Health approach.”  

Key Focus Areas 

As a WOAH Collaborating Centre for One Health, ILRI will focus on animal health management by advancing research, capacity building, and policy engagement across several key areas:  

  • Disease prevention, including zoonotic and emerging pathogens, through surveillance and early warning systems. 
  • Biosecurity and value-chain interventions to reduce disease risks. 
  • Epidemiological modeling, socio-economic impact assessments, and policy engagement. 
  • Climate-smart strategies to address animal health vulnerabilities linked to environmental change. 

WOAH Director General Emmanuelle Soubeyran hailed the partnership, noting that “ILRI’s interdisciplinary approach aligns with WOAH’s vision for One Health. Together, we can transform research into actionable policies and provide more evidence for WOAH international standards to safeguard animal health, trade and global food security. We look forward to working closely with ILRI to advance the One Health agenda and build stronger, more resilient animal health systems globally.” 

The collaboration marks a pivotal step in bridging science and policy to tackle interconnected health challenges worldwide. 

For inquiries, contact: 

International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

Contact: Hung Nguyen: [email protected]

World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) 

Contact: Chadia Wannous: [email protected]  

Key findings: 

  • Animal diseases are migrating into previously unaffected ​​areas, ​​half (47%) of which have zoonotic – or animal-to-human – potential. 
  • Outbreaks of bird flu in mammals more than doubled last year compared to 2023, increasing the risk of further spread and human transmission. 
  • Access to livestock vaccines remains uneven around the world, with disease eradication efforts facing funding and political challenges. 
  • Antibiotic use in animals fell by 5​​% between 2020 and 2022 and expanding livestock vaccination globally would reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. 

23 May, PARIS – Infectious animal diseases are affecting new areas and species, undermining global food security, human health and biodiversity, according to the first State of the World’s Animal Health report. 

The new annual assessment, published by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), provides the first comprehensive review of animal disease trends, risks and challenges, from the uptake and availability of vaccines to the use of antibiotics in animals. Released ahead of WOAH’s 92nd General Session and its Animal Health Forum – where leading experts will gather to discuss vaccination and innovation in disease prevention – the report sets the stage for high-level discussions on how science-based vaccination strategies and emerging technologies can help address current and future animal health threats through a One Health approach. 

Among its findings, the report revealed the reported number of avian influenza outbreaks in mammals more than doubled last year compared to 2023 with 1,022 outbreaks across 55 countries compared to 459 outbreaks in 2023. 

The authors highlighted that, while the risk of human infection remains low, the more mammalian species such as cattle, cats or dogs infected, the greater the possibility of the virus adapting to mammal-to-mammal, and potentially human, transmission. 

“The spread, prevalence and impact of infectious animal diseases is changing, bringing new challenges for agriculture and food security, human health and development, and natural ecosystems,” said Dr. Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General of WOAH. 

By launching a new, annual assessment of the state of the world’s animal health, WOAH shines a light on our interconnected health issues and the solutions that can improve animal health and, by extension, global health.

Dr. Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General of WOAH. 

Bird flu, or high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), which has caused the culling or loss of more than 630 million birds in the last two decades was one of several animal diseases to affect new areas last year. 

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR), which has traditionally affected sheep and goats in developing countries, has re-emerged in Europe while Africa swine fever (ASF) reached Sri Lanka, travelling more than 1,800 km from the nearest outbreaks, the report found. 

Almost half of the WOAH-listed diseases notified to WOAH between 2005 and 2023 were considered a threat to human health with zoonotic, or animal-to-human infection, potential. 

The report cited climate change and increased trade among the factors influencing the spread and prevalence of animal diseases. Many are preventable through a combination of vaccination, improved hygiene and biosecurity measures, but the report noted that access to animal vaccines remains uneven around the world. 

“Alongside other measures, vaccination remains one of the most powerful disease prevention tools available, saving countless lives, preventing economic losses and reducing the need for antimicrobial treatments,” Dr. Soubeyran added. 

“To limit the spread of highly damaging diseases like avian influenza, foot and mouth disease and PPR, the global community must strengthen international cooperation and ensure equitable access to safe, effective vaccines, alongside other control measures.” 

Since 2006, WOAH has supported access to animal vaccines through its vaccine banks and currently operates two, one for rabies and one for PPR. As of May 2025, the WOAH Rabies Vaccine Bank has delivered almost 30 million dog vaccines to countries in Africa and Asia. However, progress towards ending rabies has stalled in recent years, with the percentage of countries reporting implementing control measures falling from 85 per cent to 62 per cent. 

The report also emphasised the importance of disease prevention for reducing the need for antibiotic treatment and limiting the development of drug-resistant diseases. 

By 2050, antimicrobial resistance is projected to cause livestock losses that jeopardise the food security of two billion people and result in a US$ 100 trillion economic loss if urgent action is not taken. 

The latest figures indicate that antimicrobial use, including antibiotics, in animals fell five per cent between 2020 and 2022, with use in Europe seeing the biggest decline of 23 per cent, followed by Africa at 20 per cent. However, one in five countries continue to use antimicrobials as growth promoters, which is discouraged by WOAH. 

“The indiscriminate use of antimicrobials contributes to antimicrobial resistance, which is a major threat to both animal and human health,” said Dr. Javier Yugueros-Marcos, Head of the Antimicrobial Resistance and Veterinary Products Department at WOAH. “The declining use of antibiotics in almost all regions is encouraging but further reductions can be achieved by prioritising preventative measures against animal diseases, with vaccination as an essential component of these.”  

WOAH calls for investments to strengthen national Veterinary Services, greater global and regional coordination and improved disease surveillance systems to scale up effective disease control. This includes developing and implementing advanced diagnostic tools to differentiate between vaccinated and infected animals, enabling accurate disease tracking and trade transparency. 

Read the report – For interviews, please contact [email protected] 

Key success stories on vaccination presented in the report 

  • In October 2023, France became the first EU country to implement a nationwide vaccination campaign against bird flu in ducks, which play a key role in the spread of the disease. The campaign helped reduce the number of outbreaks from a forecasted 700 to just 10, according to the report. 
  • Türkiye developed a new vaccine for an outbreak of FMD within just 37 days, vaccinating 14.2 million cattle – 90% of the national herd – and 2.5 million sheep within six months.  
  • The Philippines has now vaccinated millions of dogs against rabies with help of WOAH vaccine bank. In the past, the country received 500,000 doses of rabies vaccine through EU funding, leading to a noticeable decline in rabies cases.  

About the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) 

WOAH is the global authority on animal health. Established in 1924 in response to the devastating rinderpest outbreak in Belgium – which was part of a broader epidemic that affected several European countries and had global repercussions – WOAH has remained dedicated to monitoring, controlling, and disseminating information on animal diseases worldwide. WOAH focuses on transparently disseminating information on animal diseases, improving animal health globally and thus building a safer, healthier and more sustainable world. 

About the Animal Health Forum at WOAH’s 92nd General Session of the World Assembly  

The Animal Health Forum, “Veterinary vaccines and vaccination: from science to action – reflections for change”, will provide a platform for dialogue between WOAH Delegates, subject matter experts and concerned stakeholders on the barriers that are currently impeding the development and use of vaccines in disease prevention and control strategies.  

26 September 2024, New York – Drug-resistant pathogens could jeopardise the food supply of over two billion people and increase health care costs by US$ 159 billion annually by 2050, according to the most extensive modelling of the impact of AMR to date.

The analysis, produced by a global partnership of leading health and development organisations, is the first to comprehensively forecast the economic and health burdens of AMR on both humans and food-producing animals. It also found a return of US$ 28 for every US$ 1 invested if urgent action were to be taken now.

According to the UN, AMR is one of the top 10 global health threats facing humanity. It has led to the rise of “superbugs”, including bacteria no longer treatable using antibiotics.

The EcoAMR series (Health and Economic Impacts of AMR in Human and Food-Producing Animals), led by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), used the latest data from 204 countries and 621 subnational locations to forecast the impact of AMR on mortality, health care costs, food security and the global economy.

Released ahead of a High-Level Meeting on AMR at the UN General Assembly, the modelling found that, if no action is taken now, drug resistance could cause annual global GDP losses up to US$ 1.7 trillion by 2050, while the spread of resistant pathogens from livestock to humans, could cost up to US$ 5.2 trillion. It also found that AMR could result in production losses in the livestock sector equivalent to the consumption needs of 746 million people, or more than two billion people in a more severe scenario by the same year.

The analysis, published in three reports, was produced by experts at WOAH, Animal Industry Data (AID), the Center for Global Development (CGD), Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) and RAND Europe, with contributions from The World Bank.

The threat of drug-resistant infections to human health is widely recognised but the impact of AMR on the health of animals, our environment and our economy cannot be overlooked. On top of the drastic human death toll, drug-resistant pathogens can also severely impact animal health and welfare. It creates huge strains on the economy as well as on our sustainable development efforts. For the first time, we have an idea of exactly what’s at stake unless the global community takes urgent action now.

Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General, WOAH

The EcoAMR series authors have called for urgent investments to support AMR National Action Plans, of which almost 90 per cent have no funding allocated for their implementation. The human health research also showed that greater investment in new antibiotics, health care improvements, universal vaccine coverage and sanitation and hygiene could prevent more than 110 million human deaths from 2025 to 2050.

Investing in access to antibiotics and innovation for new drugs could also reduce human health costs by US$ 97 billion per year and increase the labour force by 23 million people, the rates of tourism by 1.2 per cent and hospitality by 0.6 per cent, adding US$ 960 billion to the annual GDP; and generate a further US$ 679 billion per year in health value, the human economic analysis found.

“AMR carries a significant economic burden, but taking prudent action now will see a significant return on investment through a reduction in health care costs, improvements in the economy, and a healthier society at large,” commented Anthony McDonnell, Policy Fellow at the Center for Global Development (CGD). “It is in high-income countries’ interests to ensure that those in poorer parts of the world have access to high-quality treatment.” 

The animal health analysis showed that achieving a global 30 per cent reduction in livestock antimicrobial use within five year-time-period can lead to a cumulative increase in global GDP by US$ 120 billion from 2025 to 2050.

“These data highlight the need to accelerate comprehensive solutions to tackle AMR,” said Dr Christopher J.L. Murray, Director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). “A ‘One Health’ approach, which spans the human, plant and animal sectors, is needed, as well as bringing the private and public sectors together to collaborate at the national and global levels. Only global will and investment, guided by evidence, can contain this growing health threat.”

The EcoAMR series estimates that about 39 million people could die due to AMR by 2050, especially among older people and those in low- and middle-income countries. This study is consistent with the results from the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) project recently published. Together, these findings provide a complete picture of the critical global threat posed by AMR.

Notes to editors:

To arrange any interviews/briefings, please contact:

Communication Department, World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), [email protected]

About the EcoAMR consortium of international partners:

The Center for Global Development (CGD) and Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) in partnership with the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) addressed the human health components, while RAND Europe and World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in partnership with Animal Industry Data (AID) covered the animal heath aspect of this cross-sector initiative.

Control measures have been implemented in both Greece and Romania, including zoning, movement restrictions, increased surveillance, and stamping out infected farms. As of 9 August 2024, Greece has reported 47 outbreaks, with over 2000 cases, while Romania notified 56 outbreaks, with over 5000 cases, through the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS). Ongoing epidemiological and laboratory investigations aim to understand the transmission pathways and extent of the virus’s circulation.

Earlier this year, PPR outbreaks were reported in the Caucasus region, with eight outbreaks in Türkiye between 1 January 2024 and 4 July 2024, as reported by ADIS1, and detections in Georgia for the first time since 2016, as reported by WAHIS. Although no direct links have been established between these events and the current situation in Greece and Romania, the ongoing investigations highlight the risk of PPR introduction into Europe and the Caucasus. 

Greece and Romania were historically free from PPR, meaning that the disease had not been detected for at least 25 years. Both countries therefore held a PPR-free status, granted by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), an official recognition that countries were free from the PPR virus. This status is significant as it facilitates international trade and strengthens the confidence of trading partners in the countries’ livestock health standards. While the PPR-free status of both countries has been temporarily suspended in light of recent outbreaks, they can recover this status by demonstrating successful control of the outbreaks and applying for reinstatement in accordance with WOAH International Standards (Article 14.7.7 of the Terrestrial Animal Health Code). 

Key recommendations from WOAH 

WOAH recommends that Veterinary Services take the following actions: 

  • Strengthen awareness: educate farmers, veterinarians, and other professionals in contact with susceptible species to detect and report clinical signs suggesting PPR infection, such as high fever, diarrhoea, nasal discharge, tearing eyes, and salivation, which may become mucopurulent followed by death. 
  • Update risk assessments: revise risk assessments to reflect newly available information on disease distribution. 
  • Update contingency plans: test contingency plans through simulation exercises and combat misinformation through public education and information campaigns. 
  • Ensure transparency: maintain transparency and provide timely notifications of disease occurrences. 

Regional cooperation is essential to coordinate strategies and actions to curb the transboundary spread of PPR. Countries must work together to develop and implement comprehensive plans to address the outbreak and prevent further transmission. 

Disease control efforts in Greece and Romania are supported by the European Commission and CIRAD, designated as a reference laboratory by WOAH and the European Union. Since 2015, WOAH has been collaborating with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) under the Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs) to support the eradication of PPR and enhance coordination and collaboration among partners. 

WOAH has also established a PPR vaccine bank to facilitate rapid access to quality vaccines under negotiated conditions. This resource supports vaccination efforts to control and eventually eradicate PPR in affected regions. 

WOAH remains committed to supporting affected countries and strengthening global efforts to eradicate PPR. By fostering international collaboration, we can protect livestock industries and safeguard the livelihoods of those who depend on them. 

Dr Soubeyran, a veterinarian by profession, has vast experience and an illustrious career in veterinary public health and animal health. Once the dean of the National Veterinary School of Lyon (VetAgro Sup), from 2016 to 2021, she is also the former Deputy Director General for Food within the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Head of French Veterinary Services as well as the French National Delegate to WOAH. With over fifteen years of leadership in national and regional positions, Dr Soubeyran is well poised to lead WOAH towards attaining its objectives and furthering its mission in the global arena.

It is an honour for me and a great responsibility to have been elected by the WOAH Members as its Director General. WOAH is a 183 Member strong organisation recognised for its expertise in the field of animal health and welfare, and like all people who cherish WOAH, I want to see it continue to evolve and adapt to the challenges ahead.

Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran, WOAH Director General

Dr Soubeyran’s five-year tenure will focus on three pillars:

  1. Increase visibility of WOAH: Animal Health plays a pivotal role in global issues such as food security, economy, trade, public health, biodiversity, and climate change mitigation. With a view to garner financial, technical, and public support, Dr Soubeyran will strategically mobilise significant resources by amplifying WOAH’s voice. She will convince decision makers that the cost of inaction far exceeds the cost of prevention. 
  2. Strengthen Veterinary Services: The capacity of Veterinary Services is limited, with only 7% of WOAH Members having optimal capacities. Dr Soubeyran proposes to strengthen this workforce considering that it is critical for safe and sustainable food production.
  3. Modernise WOAH: In our fast-changing world, WOAH must adapt to remain agile, inclusive, and innovative. Dr Soubeyran will support increased inclusivity, digitalisation, and data-driven approaches, including big data processing and new technologies for disease surveillance.

As WOAH builds on its century of unwavering commitment to global animal health, Dr Soubeyran is uniquely positioned to usher a new era and spearhead the Organisation in charting a sustainable future. The road ahead comes with major animal health and welfare challenges where WOAH’s leadership with its partners will be critical in finding solutions. The new Director General anticipates with great enthusiasm, the opportunity to achieve the Organisation’s objectives through close collaboration with Members and their Delegates, the Council and the Regional Commissions, WOAH staff, other international organisations and all stakeholders across sectors. Because animal health is our health. It’s everyone’s health.

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Today marks another significant milestone in the World Organisation for Animal Health’s (WOAH) unwavering commitment to global animal health as the Organisation announces the election of its new Director General. 

Through a secret ballot vote, following the “one country, one vote” rule, WOAH Delegates chose Dr Soubeyran, to lead the Organisation into its next chapter. She therefore becomes WOAH’s 8th Director General. Under Soubeyran’s leadership, the Organisation will remain dedicated to advancing animal health governance, promoting a safer, healthier future for both animals and humans. 

Dr Soubeyran’s election brings an end to predecessor Dr Monique Eloit’s successful 8-year tenure at the  Organisation. Dr Eloit leaves a significant legacy, having enhanced global cooperation to combat animal diseases. During her two mandates, WOAH has strengthened its Members’ capacity and inclusivity, expanding support for veterinary paraprofessionals and community animal health workers. Fostering innovation, WOAH also implemented data-driven programmes such as the Observatory, a monitoring mechanism of the implementation of WOAH Standards, and the global database on animal antimicrobial use, ANIMUSE.  

As we celebrate WOAH’s 100th anniversary, we reflect on a century of unwavering commitment to global animal health. The future presents complex and interconnected challenges, from zoonotic diseases to the sustainability of animal production. WOAH is prepared to take the lead in addressing these issues with an emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.   

Sweden – Latest data reveals a concerning 2% increase in antimicrobial use in animals at global level between 2019 and 2021, after several consecutive years of significant decrease. The data is part of the latest report on antimicrobial use in animals released today at the 9th Meeting of the Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance (GLG on AMR) held in Sweden.

The need for urgent action has never been more evident. Robust surveillance systems are critical to support informed decision-making that will enable the implementation of cost-effective AMR interventions under a One Health approach.

Mr. Jakob Forssmed, GLG Member and Minister for Social Affairs and Public Health, Sweden

Antimicrobials are critical medicines whose effectiveness must be preserved for the treatment, control and, where appropriate, for the prevention of infectious diseases in animals, humans and plants. Resistance to these medicines has become a major concern, as it endangers everyone’s health. Economic reports already project a potential loss of 1.8 years of life expectancy worldwide by 2035 due to AMR1.

Although AMR is a natural phenomenon, it can be greatly accelerated by the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials across sectors. Efficient monitoring systems are essential to inform decisions targeting the responsible use of antimicrobials.

Since 2015, WOAH has been monitoring the use of antimicrobials in animals, as a key component of its strategy to limit the emergence of AMR. ANIMUSE, the global database on ANImal antiMicrobial USE, facilitates access to this crucial and growing set of information. This initiative has contributed to triple the number of countries with a surveillance system in place over the last decade.

Today, the Organisation released the latest groundbreaking data, highlighting both progress and challenges in the global fight against AMR in the animal health sector.

The animal health sector plays a pivotal role in the efforts to curb AMR by promoting a more responsible use of antimicrobials. Therefore, it has to be adequately supported to help accelerate the response to this still growing threat.

Dr Monique Eloit, WOAH Director General

Among the four key actions identified to effectively address AMR in animals, preventive measures should be prioritised. When available, vaccines can be robust allies to prevent diseases that could otherwise lead to the use of antimicrobials. Yet only six cents for every 10 USD were allocated to R&D in animal health vaccines from 2017 to 20242, highlighting the need to enhance research, development and implementation of innovative tools in animal health.

A focus on the use of antimicrobials for growth promotion

Growth promotion means using antimicrobials in healthy animals to boost productivity. While significant progress has been made in phasing out this practice, data showcases that it is still reported by almost 20% of WOAH’s Members. More worryingly, at least 11% still use one or more of the highest priority critically important antimicrobials for human medicine, such as colistin, as growth promoters. 

WOAH continues to encourage its Members to restrict the use of antimicrobials solely to veterinary medical use and to actively engage in dialogue with the concerned parties to achieve a total ban on the use of antimicrobials as growth promoters, starting with those that are critically important for human health.

In light of the recent data, collective efforts must be redoubled to safeguard the health and well-being of current and future generations by preserving the efficacy of antimicrobials. Everyone’s health is at stake.

1GLG report:  Towards specific commitments and action in the response to antimicrobial resistance

2 AMR R&D Hub: A global partnership currently consisting of 17 countries, the European Commission and two philanthropic foundations, launched in May 2018 following a call from G20 leaders