OIE

World Organisation for Animal Health
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Formation	1924
Type	N/A
Headquarters	Paris, France
Membership	182 countries
Language	N/A
Leader title	N/A
Leader name	N/A
Website	www.oie.int

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) is an intergovernmental organization responsible for improving animal health worldwide. Established in 1924, the OIE is recognized as a reference organization by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and works to ensure transparency in the global animal disease situation, collect, analyze, and disseminate veterinary scientific information, and provide expertise and encourage international solidarity in the control of animal diseases.

History

The OIE was founded in response to the outbreak of rinderpest, a devastating cattle disease, in Europe in the early 20th century. The organization was established to promote transparency in the reporting of animal diseases and to improve the coordination of animal health measures across borders. Initially, the OIE had 28 member countries, but it has since grown to include 182 member countries.

Objectives

The main objectives of the OIE are:

1. Transparency: To ensure transparency in the global animal disease situation by collecting, analyzing, and disseminating veterinary scientific information. 2. Scientific Information: To provide scientific information and expertise to member countries to help them improve their animal health systems. 3. International Solidarity: To encourage international solidarity in the control of animal diseases. 4. Sanitary Safety: To safeguard world trade by publishing health standards for international trade in animals and animal products. 5. Promotion of Veterinary Services: To improve the legal framework and resources of national Veterinary Services.

Structure

The OIE is governed by the World Assembly of Delegates, which meets annually and is composed of delegates from all member countries. The organization is led by a Director General, who is elected by the World Assembly. The OIE's headquarters are located in Paris, France.

The OIE operates through a network of regional and sub-regional offices, as well as reference laboratories and collaborating centers around the world. These facilities provide scientific and technical support to member countries.

Activities

The OIE's activities include:

- Disease Reporting: The OIE maintains the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS), which collects and disseminates data on animal diseases worldwide. - Standard Setting: The OIE develops international standards for animal health and welfare, which are recognized by the WTO. - Capacity Building: The OIE provides training and support to veterinary services in member countries to help them improve their animal health systems. - Research and Development: The OIE supports research into animal diseases and the development of new diagnostic tools and vaccines.

Impact

The OIE plays a crucial role in safeguarding animal health and welfare globally. By setting international standards and providing a platform for cooperation, the OIE helps to prevent the spread of animal diseases and ensures the safety of international trade in animals and animal products.

Also see

• World Health Organization
• Food and Agriculture Organization
• World Trade Organization
• Animal welfare
• Veterinary medicine