The CBC4HEALTH project (Education and Cross-Border Cooperation for Better Health) was officially launched on 8 October in Koprivnica, Croatia. The initiative aims to strengthen cross-border cooperation on public health, animal protection and the prevention of diseases associated with climate change.
A cross-border One Health initiative
Under the slogan “No Borders – Better Health for All”, the project applies the One Health approach, recognising the interconnections between human, animal and environmental health. It covers all Hungarian and Croatian border counties on either side of the river Drava. The partnership brings together the Pannon Területi Szervezet, a regional organisation of the Hungarian Veterinary Chamber (MAOK) as lead partner, the Croatian Veterinary Chamber (HVK) and the Institute of Public Health of Koprivnica-Križevci County (Croatia).
Preventing zoonoses in a changing climate
Guided by the regional motto “The Drava River Connects Us”, CBC4HEALTH aims to improve coordination across the border and contribute to healthier, safer and more resilient communities.
‘A key priority is to develop joint mechanisms to prevent and control zoonoses, with particular attention to health risks associated with climate change,’ explains Ivan Zemliak, CEO of HVK. ‘Cooperation between veterinary and public health services will be central to these efforts.’
Training and knowledge exchange
The project will organise professional training and educational events and develop practical tools to strengthen cross-border institutional networks. Veterinarians, medical professionals, hunters, farmers and other stakeholders are invited to participate and share knowledge.
Running from June 2026 to May 2028, the project has a total budget of €190,899, including €152,719 from the European Regional Development Fund.
(photo ©Zoran Juginovic/MediaVet)