WOAH, founded as OIE is the global authority on animal health: we work to ensure the health of animals & their environments across the world, recognising that animal health impacts everyone’s health & that the safety of our future depends on it.

Since 1924, we have focused on the complexities of animal health. Over time, we expanded our mission to include building partnerships with other international organisations on global initiatives, developing & disseminating knowledge, monitoring animal diseases & designing science-based protocols to manage outbreaks before they become a threat to public health, livelihoods & international trade. We have 182 Members worldwide that are committed to complying with our animal health & welfare standards. We strive for transparency in everything we do.

We know that collaboration is the key to obtaining sustainable results, which is why we endeavour to ensure solidarity among all our Members to effectively control animal diseases, whether they affect livestock, aquatic animals or wildlife. We work to create a substantial network of people, a solid knowledge base and a pool of resources & information that can be easily accessed and shared. We work to empower all of our Members, communities and partners in our global quest for a more sustainable society, one that benefits animals, humans & the planet.

We are building a better future through better animal health.

Veterinary & Pet

Health Services

Health Care

World Organisation for Animal Health

William Karesh

Cristobal Zepeda

The Department Heads at the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) are responsible for leading and managing their respective units to ensure the effective implementation of the organisation's global animal health initiatives. This team coordinates efforts to develop and disseminate knowledge, manage budgets, enhance preparedness and resilience, maintain legal standards, oversee procurement, and facilitate events. Collectively, they strive for transparency, collaboration, and sustainability in animal health and welfare practices to secure a healthier future for animals, humans, and the planet.

Department Heads

About

Team members

Other teams at World Organisation for Animal Health

Officers and Coordinators

Project Management Team