Since its formalization in 1999-2000, the collaboration between FAO and Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been instrumental in advancing regional development, focusing on strengthening efforts in food security, agriculture, fisheries, forestry and sustainable development.

The 2013 Memorandum of Understanding, later renewed in 2018, underscores the shared commitment to enhancing cooperation in critical sectors such as agriculture and forestry. With a particular emphasis on transboundary animal disease control, food safety, nutrition, food security, and bioenergy development, these key areas highlight the collective dedication to promoting sustainable development across Southeast Asia.

In response to the evolving threats posed by transboundary, emerging, and re-emerging infectious diseases, including the global health threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), FAO and ASEAN have intensified their collaboration. Through ECTAD, this partnership operates at the regional level, addressing shared challenges and advancing mutual development goals. This synergy becomes even more significant in the face of global health crises, such as pandemics and the silent pandemic of AMR, which demands joint efforts at the regional level.

 Milestones between FAO and ASEAN cooperation on animal health

A significant milestone was reached in 2010 during the 32^nd ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF), marked by the unanimous endorsement of the AMAF Statement. This endorsement led to the establishment of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Animal Health and Zoonoses (ACCAHZ). ACCAHZ was conceived with a clear vision: to proactively address potential pandemics originating from animals through regional coordination for detecting, preventing, and controlling animal health threats and zoonoses.

Following the AMAF Statement, the ASEAN Sectoral Working Group on Livestock (ASWGL) established the Preparatory Committee for the Establishment of ACCAHZ and endorsed the creation of the ASEAN Regional Support Unit (RSU). Serving as a cornerstone in operationalizing ACCAHZ, the RSU played a pivotal role in supporting ASEAN in enhancing preparedness for animal diseases and related health threats.

The tangible outcomes of this collaboration are evident, with FAO actively supporting the establishment of ACCAHZ and complementary technical bodies such as the ASEAN Veterinary Epidemiology Group (AVEG), the ASEAN Laboratory Directors Forum (ALDF), and ASEAN Communication Group for Livestock (ACGL). This collaboration receives further momentum with the strengthened ASEAN RSU, supported by the Strengthening Mechanisms in Animal Health for a Resilient ASEAN (SMART ASEAN) project, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian Government.

Latest news

Our partners