LAUNCH OF THE NEW GLOBAL ANIMAL DISEASE INFORMATION SYSTEM “EMPRES-I +”

LAUNCH OF THE NEW GLOBAL ANIMAL DISEASE INFORMATION SYSTEM “EMPRES-I +”

Strengthening One Health intelligence and early warning  

Opening Remarks

By

Dr QU Dongyu, Director-General

As prepared

22 October 2021

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.         The growing pressure on land and natural resources makes today’s health challenges multidimensional.

 

2.         With increasing threats from the risks of epidemics and pandemics, the impacts of the climate crisis, environmental contamination, biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, to name a few.

 

3.         The complexity and inter-linkage of these challenges calls for a bold paradigm shift, with an even broader One Health approach.

 

4.         And with greater emphasis on prevention.

 

5.         We live in a globalized and connected world where disease can spread very quickly.

 

6.         Fast and reliable disease Big Data, followed by early response, is more important than ever. 

 

7.         The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the challenges and importance of early warning.

 

8.         Disease Big Data System must be more efficient to capture relevant data.

 

9.         More sensitive to detect unusual events.

 

10.       And must rapidly share information on events that have the highest potential for uncontrolled spread.

 

11.       The new FAO Global Animal Disease Information System “EMPRES-I Plus” responds to these requirements.

 

12.       It integrates and analyzes real-time Big Data from public health, animal health and environmental sectors for early warning, forecasting and decision-making.

 

13.       It provides the world with the best tools for One Health information sharing at global, regional, national and local levels.

 

14.       This optimized and improved system benefits from the latest advances in technology and innovation.

 

15.       It is fully integrated and inter-operable with FAO’s Hand-in-Hand Geospatial Platform.

 

16.       And will support the implementation of FAO‘s new Strategic Framework 2022-2031 and its One Health Programme Priority Area.

 

17.       We need to prioritize and strengthen the animal health sector.

 

18.       Strong international and national animal health systems are key to prevent diseases, ensure safe and nutritious food, and farmer’s interests.

 

19.       The new “EMPRES-I Plus” reflects FAO’s commitment to building resilient and sustainable animal health systems,

 

20.       By supporting Members in identifying and mitigating transboundary high impact animal disease threats.

 

21.       And will contribute to information sharing and joint risk assessment through the Tripartite Global Early Warning System.

Dear Colleagues,

 

22.       October 24th is UN World Development Information Day. 

 

23.       It is an occasion to reflect on how the power of information technology can be harnessed for better production, better nutrition, better environment and a better life for all, leaving no one behind.

 

24.       The new EMPRES underlines the value of early warning information systems for improving lives and livelihoods.

 

25.       But this can only be achieved through collective information sharing and early action. 

 

26.       We urge our regional partners and FAO Members to make full use of “EMPRES-I Plus” for anticipatory action and increased resilience.

 

27.       And we call on our global partners to continue working more and better together with us to continue improving animal disease Big Data system. 

 

28.       Thank you.