One Health governance: theory, practice and ethics

Abstract

One Health approach is a global public good (GPG) that invites governance to maximize the health of humans, animals, and the environment by shaping interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration. This paper explores the theoretical foundations, practical applications, and ethical considerations of the One Health governance architecture. At the theoretical level, One Health governance invites systems thinking and involves collaborative efforts among multiple stakeholders, applying across multi-layered scenarios and requires public-private partnership (PPP). This governance architecture transcends traditional anthropocentrism and shifts towards ecocentrism, highlighting the integrity of ecosystems and the deep prevention of diseases. Selected case studies illustrate the implementation of One Health initiatives, such as shared water resources, disease surveillance programmes, and sustainable environmental health interventions, demonstrating the added value of a collaborative efforts across sectors and regions. Ethical considerations are integral to decision-making and actions of One Health governance, with a focus on equity, inclusivity and accountability, providing moral guidelines to prioritize the health of vulnerable populations and ecosystems. Through these efforts, One Health governance is expected to improve public health globally, promote sustainable development, and achieve a harmonious coexistence of human, animal, and environmental health.