One Health governance in the European Union: Evidence review report

The Group of Chief Scientific Advisors has been asked to make evidence-based policy recommendations to support the EU's position on One Health.

One Health is defined by the United Nations as “an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimise the health of people, animals and ecosystems. It recognises [that] the health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment (including ecosystems) are closely linked and interdependent”.

Given the complexity of the issues related to the potential application of One Health related policy in the European context, the EU should consider its strategy carefully. Policy makers need to take stock of all appropriate risks and potential opportunities, as well as of the implementation of appropriate governance structures to facilitate its application throughout the European Union.