WAAW 2025: WOAH fully mobilized “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future"

A Memorable Day: Turning Commitment into Action

15 November 2025 will be remembered as a milestone in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Far beyond symbolism, the day showcased the deep and tangible commitment of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and its partners.

OMSA pleinement engagée ! "Agissons maintenant : protégeons notre présent, sécurisons notre avenir" Tunis, Tunisia (Tunisie) 15 novembre 2025.

In partnership with the Tunisian Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Environment, FAO, WHO, (the AMR-MPTF project partners), WOAH co-hosted a major awareness-raising event at the City of Sciences in Tunis.

More than 100 participants, including physicians, veterinarians, dentists, ecologists, environmental specialists, agronomists, media experts and others, took part in a rich and multidisciplinary dialogue, a true illustration of the One Health approach.

The AMR symbol, displayed across the event, captured the audience’s attention as Dr Nadia Brik, WOAH One Health Programme Officer, reflected on its meaning and values (watch the video below, in French).

WAAW 2025: WOAH fully mobilized “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future" : what does the AMR logo stand for ? (in French)

When art becomes a tool against AMR

The first session concluded on an emotional note with the awards ceremony for the competition “Art in the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance.”

Three paintings were honoured, each highlighting the importance of responsible antimicrobial use and the need to preserve their effectiveness. A primary school pupil, a middle-school student, and a university student proudly shared their creativity and commitment.

Beyond the winners, the true success lies in the more than 600 submissions received—meaning 600 young people informed, engaged, and already shaping change.

The campaign, led by the School and University Medicine Directorate of the Ministry of Health, resulted in exceptional mobilisation and remarkable outcomes.

A message that resonated: the voice of a young veterinarian

Among the winning works, one audio-visual piece deeply moved the audience.

Imen Labidi, a veterinary student, received an award for a heartfelt creation in which she recorded her own voice, crafted a scenario, and translated her convictions into a powerful message. Her message was simple yet profound: everyone has a role to play in the fight against AMR.

Her work was supported and promoted by the Veterinary Services of the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet—another testament to the strength of true collaborative action.

The morning continued with high-quality scientific interventions. Medical doctors, practicing veterinarians, ecologists and environmental experts shared insights and experiences in an original, dynamic format.

WAAW 2025: WOAH fully mobilized “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future" (in Arabic)

Educate, Inform, Innovate: Building the foundations for sustainable change

Two panel discussions enriched the programme:

Integrating AMR into education, communication and public awareness, a cornerstone for lasting behavioural change;
AMR, artificial intelligence, innovation and data for One Health, a forward-looking and stimulating dialogue.

The discussions highlighted the need for tailored tools, a shared vocabulary and innovative solutions to strengthen One Health governance.

Raising awareness from an early age

The afternoon took on a special energy with a children’s workshop featuring cutting, colouring, puzzles, quizzes and interactive discussions.

It was a moment of discovery where young participants learned—through play—about One Health, nature protection, the role of animals, and the importance of responsible medicine use.

Convinced that behaviour change begins early, WOAH designed this workshop to inspire young minds and empower future generations. The children’s smiles and photos tell the story better than words.

A model of collaboration serving Tunisia

The success of this event reflects the strength of collaboration between sectors and WOAH’s commitment under the AMR-MPTF Tunisia project.

The Organisation is fully fulfilling its mandate by supporting Tunisia in advancing AMR governance through a truly One Health lens.

One day, one symbol—but above all, a shared conviction: acting together makes it possible to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials for all.