Daejeon, South Korea – 25-27 October 2024
The World Veterinary Association (WVA) participated in the 23rd Congress of the Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations (FAVA) in Daejeon, South Korea. This milestone event, attended by 3,800 participants from more than 30 countries, showcased FAVA’s enduring impact on veterinary medicine across the Asia-Pacific region and its commitment to advancing the veterinary profession globally.
A key moment of the congress was the formal transition of the FAVA presidency from WVA President-Elect Dr. Kurauchi to Dr. Hur of South Korea. This leadership change, alongside the election of a new Board and the selection of Abu Dhabi as the host city for FAVA 2028, demonstrated FAVA’s forward-thinking vision and its dedication to the growth of veterinary medicine in the region.
The WVA President addressed the General Assembly, joining dignitaries such as the Japanese Ambassador and the Mayor of Daejeon, who highlighted the essential contributions of veterinarians to global health.
A significant focus of the congress was antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with the WVA President participating in a panel moderated by Dr. Ganokon Ukrasemsin, a WVA Past Councillor. The discussion reflected FAVA’s steadfast commitment to combating AMR, a critical issue in the Asia-Pacific region where rising population densities and livestock demands increase the risks of AMR. “Veterinarians are pivotal in addressing AMR, and FAVA continues to lead the charge with dedication and expertise,” the WVA President noted.
Throughout the congress, the WVA President shared insights into the association’s growth, policies, and mission, emphasizing the role of veterinarians in tackling global challenges. Participants were also encouraged to attend the World Veterinary Association Congress (WVAC) 2025 in Washington, D.C., fostering further opportunities for collaboration and dialogue.
The 23rd FAVA Congress not only highlighted the essential role of veterinarians in global health but also underscored FAVA’s profound impact on advancing the veterinary profession in the Asia-Pacific region. Through its initiatives in education, advocacy, and policy development, FAVA has been instrumental in addressing regional challenges, from zoonotic disease prevention to sustainable livestock practices and AMR.
By bringing together over 3,800 participants from more than 30 countries, the congress exemplified FAVA’s ability to unite professionals, policymakers, and organizations to advance veterinary medicine and improve health outcomes across species.
