Asia One Health Fukuoka Declaration 2022 and Beyond

Abstract

Over four years have passed since the emergence of COVID-19, and while it appears the fight against this global pandemic has temporarily halted, concerns persist. COVID-19 may continue to mutate, posing risks of further outbreaks, and there remains a looming threat of new pandemics from other viruses. In response, implementing the One Health approach, crucial for preventing infectious diseases, has become a global priority to prepare for future pandemics. Especially in the Asia-Pacific region, recognized as a global hotspot for emerging zoonotic diseases, urgent actions are needed to enhance preparedness. Fukuoka Prefecture hosted the 2nd WVA-WMA Global Conference on “One Health” in 2016, where the groundbreaking Fukuoka Declaration was issued to advance the implementation of the One Health approach. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the importance of the One Health approach leading to the enactment of Japan's first One Health Promotion Basic Ordinance in Fukuoka in 2020. Since then, the prefecture has initiated various One Health-related measures, including the construction of the One Health Center, which comprises research institutions focused on One Health approaches, initiatives for One Health education for children, the establishment of a certification system for agricultural and fishery products, and promotion of private sector involvement. Additionally, in 2022, the Asia One Health Fukuoka Declaration 2022, the second declaration related to One Health, was adopted at the 21st Congress of the Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations (FAVA) held in Fukuoka Prefecture.

FAVA highly regarded Fukuoka Prefecture’s efforts in promoting One Health and decided to establish a One Health-focused office in Fukuoka Prefecture in response to strong requests from Fukuoka Prefecture, Fukuoka City, the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, the Fukuoka City Council, the local business community, and other related organizations. In August 2023, the FAVA One Health Fukuoka Office (FOF) was inaugurated. Since its establishment, FOF has actively engaged in various activities, including facilitating collaborative alliances between overseas universities conducting One Health research and Fukuoka Prefecture, and organizing the One Health International Forum in Fukuoka where eminent global researchers share their latest findings. These efforts have enhanced Fukuoka Prefecture's global recognition as a pioneering hub for One Health initiatives. At the 20th National Scientific Conference of the Indonesian Veterinary Medical Association (IVMA), Dr. Kurauchi is delighted to share his vigorous activities in promoting One Health, his life’s commitment, as the President of FAVA and President of the FAVA One Health Fukuoka Office, along with his pivotal role in numerous One Health-related initiatives in Fukuoka Prefecture.