World Federation for Animals joins WHO Civil Society Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance

GLOBAL – The World Federation for Animals (WFA) has officially joined the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Civil Society Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), marking a major step in bringing animal welfare to the forefront of global health discussions.

WFA now stands alongside representatives from 81 organizations working on AMR-related issues worldwide.

The group aims to support policies and practices that reduce the growing threat of drug-resistant infections, which the WHO lists among the world’s top health challenges.

WFA’s participation on the task force will be led by Dr. Masika Sophie, the organization’s Global Health Policy Manager and an expert in One Health and AMR.

She will represent more than 75 WFA member organizations and highlight how better animal welfare can help address the crisis.

“Without urgent action to tackle antimicrobial resistance, we face a future where previously treatable infections can become deadly,” said Dr. Sophie.

“As a member of this task force, we can champion the role of improved animal health and welfare in reducing reliance on antimicrobials in animal farming, consequently preserving the effectiveness of these vital medicines needed by humans, animals, and plants.”

The WHO predicts that AMR could cause 10 million deaths each year by 2050 if no effective action is taken. Farmed animals account for a significant share of global antimicrobial use, and experts warn that this could rise by 30 percent by 2040 compared to 2019 levels.

In intensive production systems, healthy animals are often given antimicrobials to prevent disease, a practice that fuels the spread of resistant pathogens through food, water, and the environment.

A growing call for responsible use

The WHO Civil Society Task Force on AMR was formed to ensure civil society contributes meaningfully to global efforts against AMR. Its work includes raising awareness, supporting advocacy, and strengthening collaboration to amplify the voices of vulnerable groups.

WFA’s appointment follows its leadership of the AMR Multi-Stakeholder Partnership Platform (MSPP) Action Group on Animal Welfare – AMR Nexus.

The group recently published a policy paper titled “Embedding animal welfare in the IPEA mandate: a One Health imperative for curbing antimicrobial resistance (AMR).”

The paper outlines how improved animal welfare, through better nutrition, housing, management, and handling, can reduce infection risks and the need for antimicrobials.

Broader developments in global cooperation

The announcement comes at a time when international organizations are stepping up efforts to manage AMR. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have also reaffirmed their commitment to the One Health approach, which connects human, animal, and environmental health in addressing antimicrobial misuse.

WFA’s inclusion in the WHO task force signals growing recognition of animal welfare as a critical part of global AMR strategies.

Through collaboration, advocacy, and evidence-based policy, the organization hopes to help ensure a future where antibiotics remain effective for generations to come.

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