The 5th international conference on One Health has kicked off in Sousse, Tunisia, with 17 countries in attendance. The conference, which runs from October 29 to 30, 2026, aims to support research, strengthen international academic cooperation, and promote the contribution of Tunisian researchers. The event is a significant scientific gathering in the field of global health, co-organized by the University of Sousse, University of Monastir, University of San Diego, and University of Catane.
The conference was opened by Tunisian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Mondher Belaïd, who emphasized the crucial role of higher education and research institutions in addressing current challenges. He highlighted that Tunisian universities and laboratories are on the frontline of defense and a vital source of innovation. Belaïd stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, citing the One Health approach, which requires coordination between medical, veterinary, agricultural, ecological, and social sciences experts.
The conference focuses on the theme "From Environmental Crises to Integrated Ecology: The One Health Approach to Climate Change, Pollution, Biodiversity Loss, and Land Degradation." Discussions will examine the direct and indirect impacts of climate change, environmental pollution, and biodiversity loss on human health. The event provides a platform for scientific exchange and aims to strengthen cooperation among stakeholders in the health and environment sectors.
The partnership behind the conference brings together institutions from Tunisia and abroad, demonstrating the importance of international collaboration in addressing global health challenges. The event is attended by high-ranking officials, including Sousse Governor Sofien Tanfouri and conference president Mohamed Benni. The gathering is expected to foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
Minister Belaïd set a clear objective for the conference: to break down barriers between scientific disciplines and promote a transdisciplinary approach. He emphasized that this integration is no longer a choice but a necessity for building resilience in the face of future crises. The One Health approach is critical in addressing the complex relationships between human health, animal health, and the environment.
The conference program includes discussions on the impact of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss on human health. Experts will share their research and experiences, providing valuable insights into the complex relationships between environmental and health issues. The event also offers an opportunity for networking and collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.
The Tunisian government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the development of research and higher education in the country. The hosting of this international conference demonstrates Tunisia's capacity to organize high-level scientific events and its dedication to addressing global health challenges. The conference is expected to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and cooperation in the field of One Health.
Key points
- The conference aims to promote the One Health approach, which requires coordination between medical, veterinary, agricultural, ecological, and social sciences experts.
- The event is co-organized by the University of Sousse, University of Monastir, University of San Diego, and University of Catane.
- The conference focuses on the theme "From Environmental Crises to Integrated Ecology: The One Health Approach to Climate Change, Pollution, Biodiversity Loss, and Land Degradation."
