Side Event: Addressing the interconnected challenges of poverty, food security, and climate change through a One Health approach and effective governance and policy coherence
The 2023 SDG report has shown the world is off track in achieving most of the SDGs and the COVID-19 pandemic and other multiple interlinked crises continue to impact the ability of the European region to achieve the SDGs, and a more integrated response is needed to overcome the multiple crises and accelerate progress.
The interconnected challenges of poverty as multidimensional issue, food security, and the complex challenges posed by climate change can be addressed through a One Health approach, supported by coherent policies and strong institutions.
The One Health approach aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems by mobilizing multiple sectors, disciplines and communities. The approach provides resilient and innovative solutions to combating poverty and improve the well-being of communities; access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food; contributes to the safety of the food supply chain and prevent the spread of infectious diseases; contribute to a more comprehensive and effective response to the complex challenges posed by a changing climate; and to promote collaboration across different sectors to overcoming the multiple crises we face. For example, COP28 on Climate highlight the critical role of One Health approaches in responding to climate challenges, as well as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (COP15) to be implemented through a One Health approach.
Against this background, this side event brought together policy makers and practitioners from governments, sister UN agencies, academia, and other partners to showcase, how a One Health approach can provide an impactful solution to accelerate progress across the SDGs.
UNEP and WHO
