The Observatory’s thematic studies

The thematic studies are a key deliverable of the Observatory. They focus on priority topics for the Organisation and its Members, such as a particular disease, standard or topic of interest. New data are collected to offer deep insights into the extent of implementation of one or more standards. They also highlight some challenges that Members may encounter while implementing international standards.

Observatory Thematic Study_ A herd of cattle and their reflection on water

A complementary approach to gain insights on the implementation of WOAH standards

Alongside the Monitoring Report, the thematic studies provide a detailed understanding of the level of implementation of one or more standards. Their objective is to explore the challenges Members may face when implementing them. This allows the Organisation to identify specific needs and propose targeted recommendations to empower Members to meet them.

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Observatory thematic study on Zoning-a chicken walking on green grass
Chicken or hen on a green meadow. Selective sharpness. Several chickens out of focus in the background

Use, challenges and impact of zoning

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Observatory thematic study on animal welfare-cattle transported in a truck
livestock transport of cows to green meadow

Animal welfare during transport by land and sea

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Use, challenges and impact of zoning

WOAH’s international standards for zoning are designed to support Members in preventing and controlling the spread of diseases, thereby contributing to the safe trade of animals and related commodities. However, previous work by the Observatory has highlighted the challenges in effectively implementing zoning standards. The capacity of Members to meet and adhere to these standards remains limited.

WOAH’s Observatory aims to monitor the implementation of WOAH standards and has therefore decided to focus its first thematic study on this key concept.

The study was divided into two parts. The first part assessed the use, challenges and impact of zones established in relation to Avian influenza, African swine fever and Foot and mouth disease in WOAH Members from 2018 to 2022, using a questionnaire-based approach. The second part analysed statistical association between selected factors and the acceptance of zones by trade partners.  

Iberian pigs grazing among the oaks in the field of Extremadura

Part 1

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Red and black Holstein cows are grazing on a cold autumn morning on a meadow in Switzerland

Part 2

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Use, challenges and impact of zoning: Part 1

How did we conduct this first part of the thematic study?

The study was conducted using a questionnaire-based approach. Three separate questionnaires were put together to address the topic for each of the three selected diseases (AI, ASF, FMD). The target respondents were members of the Veterinary Services of all WOAH Members. Each country/territory was invited to complete one questionnaire for each disease. The questionnaires were made available in English, French and Spanish on an online platform. Members could submit their answers electronically from 30 May 2023 to 4 September 2023.

How can you access the results?

The first results of this study are available in a descriptive report and in a one-page executive summary.

Use, challenges and impact of zoning: Part 2

How did we conduct this second part of the thematic study?

Part 2 analysis aims to supplement part one by measuring the statistical associations between selected factors and zone acceptance by trade partners for Avian influenza, African Swine Fever and Foot and mouth disease, in the period between 2018 and 2022.  

How can you access the results?

The results of this second part of the study are available in a descriptive report.

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Observatory – WOAH – World Organisation for Animal Health
Monitoring zoning and compartmentalisation – WOAH

Animal welfare during transport by land and sea: level of implementation of WOAH standards by Members’ Veterinary Services 

Developing international standards for animal welfare based on the latest scientific information lies at the heart of WOAH’s mandate. However, animal welfare during transport is a complex and multi-faceted subject with scientific, ethical, economic, social and political dimensions. Ensuring animal welfare during transport comes with a set of challenges for all parties involved, including farmers, business operators, transporters, and competent authorities. 

In the context of the Global Strategy on animal welfare, the Terrestrial Animal Health Standards Commission (Code Commission) included the revision of specific chapters of the Terrestrial Code on the transport of animals in its work programme. Gaining insights into the current level of implementation of these standards would usefully inform the decision-making of the Code Commission. 

How did WOAH conduct the thematic study?

The study was conducted using a questionnaire-based approach. The target respondents were National Animal Welfare Focal Points of all WOAH Members. Available in English, Spanish and French, the questionnaire was structured in different sections to explore the importance of animal transport in/from the country by land and sea, the presence and characteristics of a regulatory framework related to animal welfare during transport, as well as the presence and characteristics of a mechanism to enforce these requirements. Responses were collected between 15 November 2023 and 31 December 2023. 

The first results of this study are available in a one-page executive summary.

What will be our next steps?

Building on the findings of the first study, WOAH will continue its work to identify success factors and barriers to the implementation of WOAH standards related to animal welfare during transport. 

More on the topic

  • Observatory

    The Observatory is a transversal programme that provides an overview of the uptake of international standards on animal health and welfare and veterinary public health by our Members. It contributes to the progressive improvement of their implementation as well as to the constant assessment of our corporate initiatives by providing valuable feedback and recommendations.
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  • Monitoring zoning and compartmentalisation

    Monitoring zoning and compartmentalisation

    The international standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) for zoning and compartmentalisation support Members to prevent and control disease spread and contribute to ensuring safe trade of animals and related commodities. Monitoring zoning and compartmentalisation can bring valuable insights for both WOAH and WOAH Members.
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