Benelux

Resilience and animal health: cross-border cooperation remains essential

18 Nov. 2025

During the strategic meeting on 18 November, the Chief Veterinary Officers (CVOs) of the Benelux countries, France, and Germany discussed the current animal health situation in our region. Diseases such as avian influenza — currently widespread in the Netherlands and Germany — once again highlight how crucial close cooperation is to detect risks in time and address them jointly.

That same cooperation led to the approval of a new Benelux draft decision that simplifies the cross-border movement of equines for recreation, events, and specific work activities.

By reducing administrative burdens while maintaining strong health safeguards, the countries involved are taking a concrete step toward a more efficient and resilient approach to animal health within the Benelux.

This step results from the joint application of the European Animal Health Law and underscores how vital collaboration is for a safe, healthy, and resilient livestock sector in our region.