Global Health Agreement Recognises Animal Welfare as Central to Pandemic Prevention 

On May 20, 2025, the World Health Assembly (WHA78) adopted a landmark, legally binding Pandemic Agreement that formally integrates the One Health approach – which acknowledges the deep interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health – into global health policy.

This historic decision marks the first time animal welfare has been included within an international health framework, underscoring its critical role in preventing future pandemics.

As an organisation dedicated to improving the welfare of working animals, SPANA welcomes this development. Working animals – such as horses, donkeys, and camels – play a vital role in the lives of millions of people in low-income communities worldwide. Yet their welfare has often been overlooked in conversations about global public health.

This new agreement offers a powerful opportunity to change that. By committing to One Health principles, governments have acknowledged that animal health and welfare are essential components of preventing disease outbreaks. Many zoonotic diseases arise in environments where animals and people live and work closely together. Improving the welfare and health of working animals not only protects these animals but also safeguards the health of communities and builds resilience to future crises.

This milestone is also a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when different sectors come together. It reflects the critical leadership and dedication of organisations and experts across both the animal welfare and global health communities, whose tireless work has helped bring the intrinsic link between human, animal, and environmental health to the forefront of global policy. 

While this is a significant step forward, it also opens the door to deeper collaboration. There is still important work ahead to fully integrate animal welfare into global health strategies – but with continued collaboration, investment, and collective responsibility, we can build a more resilient, compassionate future for both animals and people.