Global One Health index: Expert consensus on synergistic solutions to advancing SDG3

With more pandemics having occurred over the last three decades, increasing attention has been paid to preventing future crises. In particular, how to integrate the various resources to facilitate the achievement of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), supported by innovative technology, has become a critical issue at the global level. Held on 8 May 2025, the 10th UN Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals side event, titled “One Health for All: Synergistic Solutions Advancing SDG3 through Sustainable Science & Inclusive Innovation”, convened global experts to explore integrated strategies for advancing human, animal, and environmental health within the 2030 Agenda. Co-organized by the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association, China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) UN Consultative Committee on Life Science and Human Health, One Health Working Group of the World Federation of Public Health Associations, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases (NIPD) at Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), and other key partners, the event aligned with the 2025 STI Forum theme, emphasizing the roles of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in achieving SDG3—ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all.

Three key issues discussed in the side event

Key issue 1—One Health approach for SDGs.

Experts unanimously emphasized that the One Health approach serves as a critical cross-cutting framework for addressing complex global challenges—including zoonotic diseases and climate-related health risks—and will directly contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Key issue 2—GOHI as a scientific tool. 

The optimization of the One Health approach hinges on resolving issues of data fragmentation and capacity disparities. Interdepartmental data silos, which persist as barriers in both low- and high-income nations, limit GOHI's overall effectiveness.

Key issue 3—GOHI for cross-sector governance.

Case studies from Cambodia and Singapore reveal that disjointed policies and fragmented responses to health threats must be addressed through multisectoral collaboration and GOHI evaluation. Furthermore, inadequate funding and a lack of political prioritization require strengthened cross-sector governance.

Global experts reach consensus

In a significant step forward for global health governance, an expert panel has endorsed the expanded application of the Global One Health Index (GOHI) at subnational levels. The consensus establishes GOHI as a key tool for implementing the One Health approach, outlining its eight core functions for advancing global health systems:

As a comprehensive assessment tool, GOHI enables policy coordination across human, animal, and environmental health through globally standardized metrics. Its structured framework incorporates governance dimensions, providing policymakers with systematic evaluation methodologies. The developed practical tools—including standardized data templates and policy brief generators—support real-time response to zoonotic diseases and food safety challenges.

Notably, GOHI demonstrates capacity for transforming raw data into country-specific toolkits and employs cost-effectiveness analysis to optimize resource allocation. Meanwhile, its AI-powered global case database will provide early warning for emerging risks such as climate-sensitive diseases.

Recommendations for action

To accelerate the implementation of the One Health framework, an international expert panel has proposed six key actionable recommendations: establish national coordination mechanisms through specialized task forces aligned with the Quadripartite Joint Plan of Action; develop equitable data platforms with open-access monitoring tools for resource-limited settings and harmonized data standards; integrate the Global One Health Index into governance systems as a benchmark for SDG3 health targets; launch localized pilot programs adopting Japan's subnational model to address service fragmentation; strengthen funding and political commitment by leveraging cost-benefit analysis to secure investments and embed One Health in climate and economic agendas; and enhance global capacity building through standardized training promoting innovative solutions such as China's low-cost diagnostics and AI-driven early warning systems.