The Inaugural Meeting of the One Health High-Level Expert Panel: A Step Forward in Global Health
On September 18-19, 2023, the One Health High-Level Expert Panel (OHHLEP) convened its inaugural meeting for its second term in South Africa, coinciding with the World One Health Congress. This gathering marked a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to address health challenges that arise at the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health. The meeting brought together a distinguished group of global experts, all committed to advancing the One Health agenda.
The Role of the Quadripartite Organizations
OHHLEP operates under the auspices of the Quadripartite organizations, which include the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). These organizations play a crucial role in fostering collaboration across sectors to tackle complex health issues that cannot be addressed in isolation. The panel serves as an advisory body to the Quadripartite, providing insights and recommendations to enhance the implementation of One Health initiatives globally.
Progress and Future Plans
During the two-day meeting, representatives from the Quadripartite organizations updated the panel members on their progress and future plans regarding the rollout of the One Health Joint Plan of Action (OH JPA). This plan aims to create a cohesive framework for implementing One Health strategies across various sectors and disciplines. The discussions emphasized the importance of leveraging the expanded panel’s expertise and building upon the successes of the first term to sustain the political momentum necessary for advancing One Health initiatives.
Dr. Ailan Li, WHO Assistant Director General for the Division of Healthier Populations, underscored the urgency of the moment, stating, “We find ourselves at a critical juncture in rolling out a One Health approach globally. It is essential that we demonstrate the value of One Health implementation while the political momentum is still with us. OHHLEP plays a critical role in advising the Quadripartite on how best to do this.”
Strengthening Cohesion and Collaboration
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the panel’s commitment to regular meetings aimed at strengthening cohesion, communication, and collaboration among its diverse members. The multidisciplinary nature of OHHLEP is one of its greatest strengths, allowing for a comprehensive approach to health challenges. By fostering ongoing dialogue and cooperation, the panel aims to enhance its effectiveness in addressing the multifaceted issues that arise at the human-animal-environment interface.
Keeping Stakeholders Informed
To ensure transparency and keep stakeholders informed about its activities, WHO and its partners will provide regular updates on OHHLEP’s work through the dedicated OHHLEP webpage. This initiative aims to engage a broader audience and encourage collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.
Conclusion
The inaugural meeting of the One Health High-Level Expert Panel for its second term represents a pivotal moment in the global health landscape. As the world grapples with complex health challenges that transcend traditional boundaries, the One Health approach offers a holistic framework for addressing these issues. With the commitment of the Quadripartite organizations and the expertise of the panel members, there is hope for meaningful progress in implementing One Health strategies that can lead to healthier populations and a more sustainable planet. The work ahead is critical, and the momentum generated during this meeting will be essential in shaping the future of global health initiatives.