This work package (WP), led by SIVtro Veterinarians Without Borders Italy and the European University Institute, aims to generate sound and consistent data/knowledge around how human (and animal) migration, mobility and trade routes and dynamics are affected by conflicts – and what this implies in terms of risks related to disease spread in conflict areas.
Specifically, three target areas have been identified for cross-border analysis: border zones between Syria and Turkey/Lebanon, between Balkans and Bulgaria/Greece and between Ukraine and Moldavia. They have been selected because of tensions within and between countries in the area with relevant impacts on mobility and trade patterns, and because of their relevance to African swine fever (ASF) and/or lumpy skin disease (LSD) spread.
The WP applies locally-tailored methodology that will be defined for each of the three target areas, and will capitalise on existing local networks. Utilising Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), data and info will be collected in order to highlight the impact of the conflict on the reshaping of 1) people and livestock mobility, 2) commercial routes and movements, and 3) the veterinary border control systems.
These elements will be analysed with a view to support understanding and managing disease emergence and spreading in the areas. More specifically the work will entail assessing the relevant implications related to conflict-associated changes on potential animal disease transmissions, with a specific concern for transboundary disease such as ASF, LSD, but also foot-and-mouth disease, peste des petits ruminants, bluetongue, and brucellosis.
All data collected will be used to support rapid response decision-making in target areas, to support the work of other WPs and to create communication tools for project results dissemination and communication (at different levels, including end users).