Context
Health and climate crises have made one reality increasingly clear: human health is inseparable from the health of animals, plants and ecosystems. Local and regional authorities are at the centre of this challenge, directly affected by the impacts of these crises and, at times, part of the dynamics that intensify them. They also hold essential levers to prevent risks, strengthen resilience and embed the One Health approach in local public policies.
Yet turning this vision into concrete action remains a major challenge. Many local authorities continue to face fragmented governance, institutional silos, limited operational tools and insufficient access to appropriate training. Strengthening local capacities is therefore essential to ensure that One Health becomes not only a shared ambition but a practical and lasting reality for communities.
Programme
The Forum will offer a much-needed space for mayors and other local leaders to learn from one another, exchange experiences and identify priorities for action. It will open with a plenary session, followed by short presentations showcasing innovative initiatives from cities around the world. A moderated discussion will then highlight common challenges, opportunities and solutions to strengthen integrated health approaches and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Convening partners
This event brings together a diverse group of partners driven by a shared ambition: to advance the One Health approach at both local and global levels. At a time when interconnected health challenges call for collective action, the World Health Organization (WHO) provides strategic leadership, technical expertise and global convening power.
The WHO Academy adds momentum through its work in lifelong learning, innovation and capacity-building. The cities of Lyon and Marseille, alongside the French WHO Healthy Cities Network, the Groupe Santé-Environnement and the Association des ÉcoMaires, help turn this shared vision into concrete action for healthier, more sustainable communities.