Animal Health to prevent Pandemics

The next pandemic could emerge at any time, underscoring the urgent need for preventive measures that address the root causes. Over 75% of new human infectious diseases originate in animals, yet global underinvestment in animal health systems has led to critical shortages in veterinary professionals, medications, and disease surveillance. This escalating risk makes animal health a crucial focus for pandemic prevention. With pro bono support from DLA Piper, the Action for Animal Health coalition is pushing for stronger animal health measures in the new WHO Pandemic prevention, preparedness and response accord emphasising the need for legal provisions that address this underestimated area of public health.

The Link Between Animal Health and Pandemics

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the potentially catastrophic impact of zoonotic diseases – those transmitted from animals to humans – on global health and economies. Despite this, animal health systems remain under-resourced, with inadequate funding for essential services like veterinary training, disease surveillance, and vaccination programs. Strengthening these systems is essential to mitigating the risk of future pandemics.

Advocating for Proactive Measures in the WHO Pandemic Treaty

Currently, WHO member states are negotiating a global treaty focused on pandemic preparedness. Action for Animal Health, a coalition comprising NGOs, research institutions, and other experts, advocates for proactive measures to prevent pandemics before they start. They urge governments to invest in animal health systems, calling for expanded resources in veterinary care, access to animal medications, disease monitoring, and vaccination programs — all vital for safeguarding human health and preventing disease spillover.

Legal Expertise for Pandemic Prevention

Recognizing the importance of legal input, Action for Animal Health sought pro bono assistance to enhance their recommendations to the WHO. The global law firm DLA Piper answered this call, dedicating time and expertise to ensure that these recommendations were legally sound and strategically framed. Terezie Vondraskova, an associate at DLA Piper, applied her experience in legal drafting to adapt the coalition’s recommendations into clear, actionable language for WHO negotiators. This collaborative approach helped frame the legal aspects of pandemic prevention, contributing to the treaty discussions.

“We need an effective mechanism for preventing pandemics and disease spillovers at the international level. It’s been inspiring to contribute to this project, and I’m eager to continue pro bono work,” said Terezie Vondraskova of DLA Piper.

Impact of Pro Bono Support on Global Health Advocacy

The legal support provided by DLA Piper enabled Action for Animal Health to refine and submit their recommendations to the WHO’s permanent representatives, negotiators, and key multilateral organisations, such as WHO, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Organization for Animal Health, and the UN Environment Programme. Equipped with these insights, the coalition is well-prepared to advocate for a stronger focus on animal health, staying involved as negotiations progress.

A Unified Effort Towards Pandemic Prevention

This pro bono collaboration highlights the importance of comprehensive pandemic prevention strategies that include animal health. Strengthened animal health systems offer a path to global health security, one that could prevent future pandemics and promote sustainable development.

Are you an organisation focused on health, animal welfare, or environmental protection? Contact us to explore how our pro bono services can support your mission for global change.

Thanks to @Terezie Vondraskova @DLAPiper @Ellie Parravani @ActionForAnimalHealth @Francesco Zatelli @Pro Publico @WHO @OIEAnimalHealth @FAO @UNEnvironment 

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