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WVA2026 is Bringing Together Global Veterinary Leaders, with Distinguished Imperial Family Presence
The World Veterinary Association (WVA) Congress is taking place in Tokyo, Japan, until the 24th of April bringing together veterinary professionals, scientists, and stakeholders from around the world in a landmark global gathering dedicated to advancing animal health, welfare, public health, and sustainability through the One Health approach. This year’s Congress is marked by the distinguished presence of members of the Japanese Imperial Family, highlighting the high-level recognition of veterinary medicine and its essential contribution to society, global health, and sustainable development. Participants are engaging in a comprehensive scientific and professional programme covering key priority areas including animal welfare, veterinary education, medicines stewardship, and emerging global health challenges, put together by JVMA who host WVAC this year, and by the WVA.
WVA annual Activities Report 2025 is published!
WVA is happy to announce that the annual Activities Report is now published and available for online reading, here Many important projects and partnerships were developed in 2025. Happy reading!
Animal Health at the Core of Pandemic Prevention: Recommendations for the 2026 UN High-Level Meeting
As preparations advance towards the 2026 UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response (PPPR), attention is turning from high-level political commitments to concrete implementation. Building on the 2023 Political Declaration and in parallel with the Pandemic Agreement negotiations and the AMR Political Declaration follow-up, stakeholders are now seeking to ensure that One Health is effectively operationalised. In this context, Action for Animal Health, with the support of the World Veterinary Association, has published a set of targeted recommendations calling for animal health to be firmly embedded within the 2026 Declaration.
WVA Announces Council for the term 2026–2028
The WVA is pleased to announce the outcome of its recent elections and introduce the newly elected Council for the term 2026–2028. Following the second round of voting for the position of President-Elect, Dr Olatunji Nasir has been elected as WVA President-Elect. At the end of April, Dr Isao Kurauchi will assume the Presidency of the WVA, working alongside the newly elected Council to advance the voice and impact of the veterinary profession worldwide.
WVA Position Statements
One Health
3 Apr 2026
WVA Position Statement on the Global Climate Change Emergency
The statement recognises climate change as a global emergency with profound and far-reaching impacts on animal, human, and ecosystem health. It affirms the role of veterinarians as health professionals and advocates for animal welfare, public health, and environmental stewardship, highlighting their responsibility to support climate mitigation and resilience through evidence-based practice. Within a One Health framework, veterinarians are encouraged to actively engage in multisectoral and transdisciplinary collaborations, strengthening community engagement and contributing to global efforts aimed at preventing future pandemics. Their involvement is essential in bridging animal, human, and environmental health disciplines to address complex health threats at their source.
One Health
1 Apr 2026
WVA Position Statement on Zoonoses Emergence in Relation to Wildlife Disruption and Trade
The statement highlights the role of wildlife habitat encroachment and wildlife trade as key drivers in the emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases. It underscores that veterinarians, as trusted professionals with expertise in animal health, welfare, and public health, are uniquely positioned to advocate for biodiversity conservation and responsible wildlife management. Within a One Health framework, veterinarians are encouraged to actively engage in multisectoral and transdisciplinary collaborations, strengthening community engagement and contributing to global efforts aimed at preventing future pandemics. Their involvement is essential in bridging animal, human, and environmental health disciplines to address complex health threats at their source.
Animal Welfare
10 Mar 2026
Position Statement on Welfare of Animals During Land Transportation – Terrestrial livestock and poultry
Farm animals have historically been subject to human-imposed constraints, prioritising production efficiency in agricultural techniques. However, there is a growing consensus on prioritising animal health and welfare, particularly during transportation, where millions of live animals are transported globally each year. Unfortunately, animal transportation poses significant risks to welfare, and animals may suffer poor conditions or death due to factors like unfit animal selection, inappropriate vehicle design, inconsiderate handling techniques, too long distances and inadequate feed, water, break facilities, and preparation, as well as harsh climatic conditions, including severe heat or cold stress, among others. These issues not only lead to suffering but can also result in financial losses from carcass bruising and other causes of downgrade, impacting food safety and non-alignment with the One Health approach. Animal transportation, whether over short or long distances, inevitably causes stress due to herding and loading techniques, tight spaces, unfamiliarity with the loaded peers, vehicle and conditions at the destination, and exposure to adverse environmental conditions.
Animal Welfare
10 Mar 2026
Factsheet on Brachycephaly in Dogs
WVA promotes the development and enforcement of appropriate national welfare standards and regulations for aquaculture, training in aquatic veterinary medicine and investment in education and capacity-building to ensure proper care, welfare, and management of aquatic animals.Brachycephaly refers to a spectrum of skull conformations characterised by shortening of the muzzle and upper airways. Not all short-nosed dogs experience severe problems; welfare outcomes depend on the degree of anatomical alteration, individual health status, and management. However, extreme brachycephaly is strongly associated with significant health and welfare concerns. Breeds such as the English Bulldog, French Bulldog, and Pug have increased sharply in popularity. Many people are unaware that certain exaggerated facial features, while perceived as “cute”, are linked to abnormal conformation that may severely compromise health, reduce quality of life, and require costly medical or surgical interventions.