What can be done to reduce the impacts of animal disease in Europe (…and who should pay for it?)

Event Presentation

Transboundary and emerging animal diseases have been increasing in occurrence over the past decades. Diseases which were once only reported outside of Europe’s borders are now more frequently occurring on European soil, and not solely in the continent’s southern climes. BTV, FMD, HPAI, ASF, PPR… If you recognise one or more of these acronyms, you’re likely also aware of the serious consequences such diseases can have on a farm and its animals. But can the impact of these diseases be limited? And is it always necessary to cull all animals on an affected farm?

The EU already has legislation on transmissible animal diseases, which is currently under evaluation. These rules are largely based on international standards, particularly the Terrestrial Animal Health Code of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), first adopted over 50 years ago. But over the past decades, the techniques and technologies available to prevent, diagnose, and contain these diseases have evolved significantly in the EU – so what can be done to future-proof these rules?

This event offers an opportunity to discuss whether the main practices governing the management of animal disease outbreaks (biosecurity, vaccination, culling) are still aligned with the latest scientific knowledge and practical capabilities. Additionally, this event aims to address the key question of who should pay for animal disease prevention and management.

Programme

📅 27th NOVEMBER | 🕑 10:00–12:00 PM (TBC) | 📍 Room XXX

Welcome Speeches

• MEP Maria Grapini – 5 min
• MEP Alexander Bernhuber – 5 min
• MEP Benoît Cassart – 5 min

I. Opening

II. What are the stakes with biosecurity, vaccination, and culling practices?

Experts in animal health and veterinary science will share their views on topics related to possible responses to animal disease outbreaks.

• What’s the current state of biosecurity and disease prevention tools, and how can the EU encourage better uptake? – Ilias Chantziaras, Ghent University
• Is it really necessary to cull all the animals on an affected farm? –Eric Cardinale, ANSES
• “Free with vaccination” status: utopia or concrete possibility? – Jean-Luc Guérin, INRAe

III. Exchange of views with MEPs

🗣 Discussion with invited speakers

• Oliver Varhelyi, European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare (TBC)
• Montserrat Arroyo Kuribreña, World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
• Anne-Catherine Dalcq, Wallonia Minister for Agriculture

🗣 25 min of open discussion with participants in the room