Underlying principles: Partnership and Communication

Partnership The strategy can only bring about real change if everyone involved in animal health works together and with all interested citizens. The EU will take advantage of existing collaborative efforts, encourage new initiatives and make more use of non-legislative alternatives to regulation. An "Animal Health Advisory Committee" will include representatives from non-governmental organisations spanning the animal health sector, consumers and governments. The Committee will provide strategic guidance on the appropriate or acceptable level of animal or public health protection, and on priorities for action and communication. The Committee will also follow the strategy's progress. It will be consulted on all impact assessments and advise the Commission on how best to deliver agreed outcomes.

Communication The Commission is committed to pursuing its objectives of clarity and transparency when communicating with consumers and stakeholders. It will include participation in international or national events, developing relationships with the media and non governmental organisations, improving websites to include comprehensive relevant information for all interested parties, checklists, manuals and a forum for Questions & Answers. There will be annual reporting on the strategy’s progress and wider communication of policies and initiatives.