Strategy and mechanism of One Health governance: case study of China

Abstract

Background: Strategy and mechanism are crucial components of One Health governance in China, designed to address the interconnected health issues between humans, animals, and the environment. This study aims to evaluate China's current One Health governance framework, identify key strengths and gaps, and provide recommendations for establishing a more integrated and effective system.

Methods: A qualitative approach was employed, including in-depth interviews, policy analysis, and a review of existing literature, to evaluate the strengths and gaps in China's One Health framework.

Results: The analysis identified progress and challenges in six key areas: (1) political commitment: strong national support exists, but lacks a unified strategy; (2) legislation and regulation: notable legislative efforts are in place, yet they remain fragmented; (3) leadership building: effective leadership structures have been established during crises but are not institutionalized; (4) strategic planning: initial regional planning is underway, but a comprehensive national focus is needed; (5) coordination and communication: mechanisms exist but require formalized, consistent information-sharing channels; (6) stakeholder engagement: public and academic awareness is growing, yet local community involvement needs strengthening.

Conclusion: To advance its One Health governance, China must focus on creating a unified strategy, enhancing interdepartmental coordination, and deepening stakeholder engagement, ensuring its alignment with international standards and improving public health outcomes.

Keywords: Multi-sectoral collaboration; One health governance; Strategy and mechanism.

Fig. 1

Research flowchart. Abbreviations: COREQ, Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research; SRQR, Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Fig. 2

Main entities involved in China's integrated health governance system. Abbreviations: ESCPHC, Education, Science, Culture and Public Health Committee; ARAC, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee; ERPC, Environmental and Resources Protection Committee; MNR, Ministry of Natural Resources of the PRC; NFGA, National Forestry and Grassland Administration; MOF, Ministry of Finance of the PRC; MEE, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the PRC; NEA, National Energy Administration; NDRC, National Development and Reform Commission; MWR, Ministry of Water Resources of the PRC; NDB, National Data Bureau; MOST, Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC; MARA, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the PRC; BAHV, Bureau of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary; MOHURD, Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of the PRC; MOE, Ministry of Education of the PRC; MEM, Ministry of Emergency Management of the PRC; MIIT, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the PRC; China CDC, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; NHC, National Health Commission of the PRC; MOJ, Ministry of Justice of the PRC; NDCPA, National Disease Control and Prevention Administration; MOHRSS, Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of the PRC; NAO, National Audit Office of the PRC; NATCM, National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine; MCA, Ministry of Civil Affairs of the PRC; NHSA, National Healthcare Security Administration; NRTA, National Radio and Television Administration; GACC, General Administration of Customs of the PRC; SAMR, State Administration for Market Regulation; NMPA, National Medical Products Administration; NBS, National Bureau of Statistics; GAS, General Administration of Sport of China; CMA, China Meteorological Administration; DRC, Development Research Center of the State Council; NPC, National People's Congress.