Required citation: FAO, WHO, WOAH and CMS. 2026. Global framework to accelerate action on avian influenza. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/ce1712en
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1. Introduction
Avian influenza is a complex global challenge with consequences for animal health,
human health, biodiversity, food security and livelihoods. In recent decades, high
pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) viruses have spread across continents, become
established in wild bird populations, affected an increasing range of mammalian species
and caused unprecedented impacts on wildlife, poultry production and associated
economies. These impacts are occurring alongside other environmental pressures
including climate change, habitat degradation and biodiversity loss.
Recognizing these challenges, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United
Nations (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Organisation for Animal
Health (WOAH) and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild
Animals (CMS) have developed this global framework to strengthen collaboration on
avian influenza through a One Health approach.
This high-level framework is not intended to replace existing mandates, strategies or
technical guidance. Rather, it adds value by showing how existing mandates, strategies
and technical mechanisms can be better connected, aligned and communicated as part
of a shared One Health response to avian influenza. It reflects a recognition that no single
sector nor institution can address avian influenza alone, and that sustainable solutions
require coordinated efforts that integrate human, animal and environmental dimensions.
Developed through a participatory and consultative process, the framework draws
on the comparative strengths and roles of each organization (Figure 1). It emphasizes
the importance of human, domestic animal and wildlife surveillance, including in wild
birds, poultry and susceptible mammalian species, timely information and data sharing,
strong laboratory and workforce capacities, effective risk communication and sustained
investment in prevention and preparedness. It reinforces the principle that protecting
health is inseparable from protecting ecosystems and ensuring resilient agrifood systems.
Given the accelerating risks and impacts of avian influenza, there is an urgent need to
translate this framework into concrete action. This will require enhanced global support,
including increased and sustained investment in prevention, preparedness, surveillance,
mitigation and response capacities across sectors. The four organizations call on
governments, donors and partners to prioritize avian influenza within broader health
security and development agendas, and to mobilize the resources necessary to support
coordinated, country-led implementation of a One Health approach.
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Source:
Link: https://doi.org/10.4060/ce1712en
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