Exploring animal welfare and biosecurity through a One Health lens at the Paris International Agricultural Fair

The 2026 edition of the Salon International de l’Agriculture (Paris International Agricultural Fair) offers a unique window into how agriculture, society and public policy interact in France and Europe. Since its creation in 1964, the event has become a major annual gathering, attracting nearly 500,000 visitors each year, bringing together farmers, citizens, institutions, and political actors. The Fair also provides an opportunity to reflect on broader issues shaping agriculture today, including animal health and welfare and biosecurity through a One Health lens.

This year, the Fair’s showcase cow was absent because of the lumpy skin disease outbreak, a reminder that public events involving animals must consider animal health and biosecurity. Some countries, such as the Netherlands, have introduced additional restrictions on certain markets as part of national disease prevention strategies. Bringing animals and large numbers of people together inevitably carries some level of risk. However, European animal markets are governed by strict veterinary inspections, traceability systems and hygiene rules designed to minimise disease transmission.

Globally, discussions around zoonotic diseases have also drawn attention to the importance of managing interfaces where humans and animals interact closely. Experiences from recent disease events such as the COVID-19 pandemic have reinforced the need for strong biosecurity practices and coordinated veterinary oversight to reduce the risks of disease emergence and spread.

At the Fair, however, the animals on display appear healthy, well cared for and free from signs of stress or discomfort, reflecting high animal welfare standards applied during the event. These observations also highlight the value of a One Health approach, which recognises the links between human health, animal health and the environment when assessing risks and designing resilient food systems.

A festive space with socio-political dimensions 

The Fair hosts more than 1 100 exhibitors from producers, public authorities, research organisations and the private sector. It combines a festive environment with a political dimension that shapes public understanding of agriculture. In many high‑income countries, people have become increasingly disconnected from farming, animal husbandry and rural life. This gap can contribute to simplified and polarised views, such as considering livestock inherently harmful, meat consumption unethical or farmers responsible for environmental degradation. Although the Fair aims to bridge this gap, many of these distances remain unexplained and some discussions appear contradictory. 

The event also serves as a platform for lobbying, advocacy and institutional communication. Pavilion 4, for example, illustrates this role, with veterinary schools and the Ministry of Agriculture among  prominent actors. Despite its international branding, the Fair remains largely focused on France, though several countries, including China, Nigeria and Rwanda, have a visible presence.