The OIE, short for the World Organisation for Animal Health (Organisation Mondiale de la Santé Animale in French), is an intergovernmental organization established by international agreement. It serves as the global reference for animal health, working towards the prevention, control, and eradication of diseases that affect animals and public health. The OIE sets standards, guidelines, and recommendations for animal health and welfare, veterinary public health, and animal production and trade.
As a prominent international body, the OIE aims to promote transparency and international cooperation among its Member Countries. It provides a platform for sharing scientific expertise, technical information, and best practices in various animal health-related fields. The OIE's primary focus lies in improving the animal health and welfare standards globally, ensuring the safe trade of animals and animal products, and tackling emerging and zoonotic diseases that can potentially affect humans.
The organization collaborates closely with other international bodies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), to foster a One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Through its monitoring, evaluation, and reporting systems, the OIE plays a vital role in the early detection and response to animal diseases of international concern, preventing their spread across borders.
In essence, the OIE serves as a globally recognized authority that promotes and coordinates efforts to ensure animal health and welfare, secure the safety of animal-based food products, and safeguard public health.
