World Veterinary Association (WVA)

On this page you can find out about the World Veterinary Association (WVA) of which the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is a member

About the WVA

WVA represents veterinary associations worldwide. It works to attract and retain national, regional and specialist veterinary associations, set up common guidelines, standards, policies and programmes for global use by the veterinary profession.

Established in 1863, it has members in nearly 100 countries.

The BVA is a member of WVA.

The WVA has cooperative contacts with international organisations such as the

World Organization for Animal Health
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Codex Alimentarius which ensures global food standards are maintained
World Health Organization

It works closely with these organisations to protect and improve animal welfare, animal and human health and the environment.

The WVA is dedicated to setting the highest possible standards for education, ethics and excellence in performance of all aspects of the veterinary profession.

WVA people

The WVA, under the presidency of Dr Tjeerd Jorna (Netherlands) is committed to unifying the veterinary profession worldwide.

Mr Bob Stevenson is the BVA's representative on WVA and is also the WVA Regional Councillor for Western Europe.

Conferences and events

The association promoted the first World Veterinary Day in April 2001 and continues to advance the role of the veterinarian in food security and food safety, animal welfare, and the management of disasters and emergencies.

The 30th World Veterinary Congress will take place in Cape Town from 10-14 October 2011. The theme is ‘Caring for animals: healthy communities’ which will focus on food production, safety and security as well as disease control in communities served by the veterinary profession.