Promoting the One Health concept: Thai Coordinating Unit for One Health.

Abstract

Within the last decade, One Health has gained momentum in government agencies, academic institutions, intergovernmental organisations and civil society organisations within Thailand. One Health is an approach of multisectoral and multidisciplinary collaboration that connects human, animal and environmental health sectors to improve the health of all. In 2014, the Coordinating Unit for One Health (CUOH), based within the Thai Ministry of Public Health, was officially established to serve as a focal point within Thailand for One Health collaboration both domestically and internationally. The unit's main functions are to share data, information and resources, and to support One Health activities within the country. The CUOH Steering Committee meets regularly to provide technical and administrative guidance on the functions and directions of the CUOH. A memorandum of understanding on One Health, signed in 2016 by seven Ministries and the Thai Red Cross Society, has strengthened One Health collaboration and provides a formalised channel through which the CUOH can facilitate activities across Ministries and with non-governmental agencies in Thailand.