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Director General
Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran was elected Director General of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) on 28 May 2024 by the World Assembly, which comprises the national Delegates of all WOAH Members. She commenced her five-year term on 1 August 2024, becoming the 8th Director General of WOAH.
Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran officially began her term as the Organisation’s 8th Director General on 1 August 2024. As WOAH celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024, Dr Soubeyran’s leadership promises to drive the Organisation into its next chapter, focusing on advancing animal health governance and addressing complex challenges with a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.
A specialist in animal health, veterinary public health, crisis management and One Health
With a background in veterinary medicine and specialisations in veterinary public health and epidemiology, Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran brings extensive experience in addressing animal health issues at both national and international levels.
She has been at the forefront of managing significant health crises, including avian influenza and bluetongue. Dr Soubeyran has led the development of emergency response plans and preventive measures against influenza, African swine fever, and zoonoses. Additionally, she has been a strong advocate for “One Health” programmes, particularly in addressing antimicrobial resistance and zoonoses, in collaboration with the human health and environmental sector.
From 2016 to 2021, she further contributed to the field as the dean of the national veterinary school of Lyon (VetAgro Sup).
Strategic priorities
Dr Soubeyran’s five-year tenure will focus on three key pillars:
Enhancing WOAH’s visibility as well as animal health and welfare issue and veterinary services actions
Recognising the critical role of animal health in global challenges such as food security, economic stability, trade, public health, biodiversity, and climate change mitigation, Dr Soubeyran aims to secure substantial financial, technical and public support for WOAH and national Veterinary Services as well as global initiatives. Her leadership aims to elevate the Organisation’s profile and advocate for the importance of proactive measures, making the case that the costs of inaction far exceed those of prevention.
Strengthening Veterinary Services
With only 7% of WOAH Members having optimal veterinary capacities in 2024, Dr Soubeyran is committed to bolstering this vital workforce. Enhancing veterinary services is essential for ensuring safe and sustainable food production.
Modernising WOAH
In a rapidly evolving world, Dr Soubeyran will drive WOAH’s adaptation by prioritising increased diversity, digitalisation, and data-driven strategies. This includes leveraging big data and new technologies for enhanced disease surveillance and response.
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Published on 01/08/2024 -
Press Release
Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran elected as new Director General of the World Organisation for Animal Health
Published on 28/05/2024