The second meeting of the Global Coordination Committee on FMD (GCC-FMD) will take place virtually on 12 April 2022.

During the first meeting, it became clear that there are common themes critical to FMD control, including access to quality vaccines, maintaining and sharing up-to-date surveillance information, Veterinary Services’ capacity and, critically, the importance of political will for a long-term commitment to FMD control. In some cases, tools and mechanisms are available to improve FMD control, however their uptake has not been optimal. More detailed information can be found in the report of the 1st meeting of the GCC-FMD.

The purpose of the second meeting is for the Standing Members to discuss strategies for improving FMD control and provide recommendations to the FMD-WG in the formulation of a harmonised 5-year action plan.

Background

The Global Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Control Strategy (GS) was developed in 2012 under the FAO/OIE Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs) to support FMD-endemic countries to reduce the burden and impact of FMD. This Strategy emphasizes the importance of a regional approach to exchange information and experiences, coordinate efforts and develop regional roadmaps showing the country’s ambitions and allowing regular progress assessment.

As the GS is advancing in its implementation, to benefit from, and coordinate with, the ongoing regional programs, FAO with the OIE has established a Global Coordination Committee on FMD (GCC-FMD) composed of representatives of global and regional organizations, institutions, technical entities, development partners and other relevant stakeholders involved in implementing FMD control initiatives. The participation of regional organizations/partners in GCC-FMD will make it possible to replicate success from one region to another through the exchange of ideas, strategies, and resources. The objectives and outcomes of the GCC-FMD are defined below:

Objectives of the GCC-FMD

1. Share global/regional/national/organizational initiatives on FMD control, achievements and lessons learned.
2. Facilitate coordination and alignment of the regional and country programs with the global strategy to achieve significant impacts for endemic and free countries.
3. Review and analyze the progress of the global strategy and regional programs to develop a harmonized 5-year action plan.
4. Provide regular updates on the progress of FMD control initiatives and prompt the strategy among the relevant stakeholders.
5. Provide a platform to liaise with development partners for advocacy and resource mobilization.
6. Provide a platform for exchange of information and needs on FMD.

Expected outcomes of the GCC-FMD

1. Better understanding of FMD dynamics and control strategies/initiatives at global, regional and national levels.
2. Enhanced coordination and communication among the stakeholders to implement the global FMD control strategy for significant impact.
3. Harmonized action plan for next phase of the global FMD control strategy developed.
4. Resources mobilized for implementation of the global strategy through engagement and advocacy with development partners and stakeholders.