In 2024, the World Assembly of Delegates called for the creation of a Governance Review Committee (GRC). Its mission: to take a fresh look at how WOAH is governed and propose reforms that meet both current and future needs.
In this context, the GRC reviews all aspects of the Organisation’s governance — from technical and financial to legal, regional, and institutional structures. This work is a key step in ensuring WOAH remains effective, adaptable, and ready for the future.
The GRC is made up of 16 Members from five regions, as well as regional advisers including from other Members, selected by the GRC representatives.
The World Assembly of Delegates, on the proposal of the GRC, approved seven recommendations on changes to WOAH’s governance (Assembly Resolution No. 4 (2026))
The GRC aims to develop a final set of recommendations for improving WOAH’s governance, to be submitted for approval by the Assembly at the 94th General Session in 2027.
The GRC aims to develop and submit a package of legal reforms implementing the governance reform proposals for the Assembly’s approval at the 95th General Session in 2028.
Participate actively in the consultative process on the work of the GRC by engaging through Regional Commissions, with the support of the WOAH’s Regional and Sub-Regional Representations, and by initiating consultations with relevant authorities and stakeholders at Member level.
Visit the WOAH Delegates’ Portal to stay informed on the GRC’s progress and access to key documents.
Subscribe to the WOAH Newsletter to receive quarterly updates on the GRC and get in contact with your WOAH Regional or Sub-Regional Representative.
For more information, please contact: GRC Secretariat ([email protected])
All Members are encouraged to share their ideas and feedback through their regional GRC members to contribute to an effective and collaborative reform process.
| Africa | Asia and the Pacific | Americas | Europe | Middle East |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya Senegal South Africa Tunisia |
Australia People’s Republic of China Sri Lanka |
Canada Chile Guatemala |
Austria Azerbaijan Ireland Norway |
Cyprus Lebanon |
The GRC’s work is carried out in close collaboration with the Council, Specialist Commissions, and all Members, ensuring a transparent and inclusive approach. This collective approach enables the identification of areas of improvements and fosters meaningful dialogue among stakeholders. The GRC provides a unique opportunity for Members to actively engage in shaping the future of WOAH’s governance.
