- Funding Programme
- Year
- 2023
Addressing antimicrobial resistance and zoonoses in Latvia using the One Health approach - continuation of structural reforms
European Commission’s Technical Support Instrument project focuses on strengthening Latvia’s capacity to monitor antimicrobial resistance and zoonoses by providing detailed support to national authorities - Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Latvia, Food and Safety Service and Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment “BIOR”.
Context
The antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the top three priority health threats in the European Union. Latvia, like other Member States, faces challenges related to AMR and zoonoses from a One Health perspective. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the most critical health concerns within the European Union, ranking among the top three priority threats. AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antimicrobial medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death. This issue is compounded by zoonoses - diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans - posing complex challenges that require a coordinated response across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.
Support delivered
The project engaged national experts from public health and veterinary sectors to strengthen Latvia’s capacity in AMR and zoonoses monitoring.
Activities included mapping Latvia’s monitoring and risk assessment systems, reviewing European best practices, and providing recommendations to improve governance, institutional cooperation, and data exchange. Capacity-building activities emphasised a broader comprehension of the One Health approach, complemented by hands-on case studies highlighting collaboration between institutions and effective public outreach
These activities were implemented during the 23-month project period both in person and online.
The primary objectives were to increase practical skills, support collaboration across sectors, and prepare participants to monitor, assess, and address AMR and zoonotic threats.
Results achieved
Through this project, Latvia received recommendations on how to strengthen its monitoring and risk surveillance system. Experts from public health and veterinary fields worked together more closely, leading to better data sharing and modern governance. The project offered training sessions and case studies, which helped participants gain practical skills and understand the One Health approach. As a result, Latvia now has a stronger system for catching and dealing with AMR and zoonotic threats. This makes both people and animals safer and helps Latvia respond quickly and effectively to future health challenges.
More about the project
You can read the documents related to the project here: