GARC joins global partners at the United Against Rabies Forum in Bangkok

GARC participated in the United Against Rabies Forum, organized by WOAH, FAO, and WHO, in October in Bangkok. The United Against Rabies Forum takes a multi-sectoral, One Health approach bringing together governments, vaccine producers, researchers, NGOs and development partners. The Forum in October brought together partners from around the world, all united in the mission to end rabies. It was inspiring to see the growing involvement and support for rabies elimination.

The sessions focused on engaging priority rabies-endemic countries and how stakeholders can support the development and implementation of National Strategic Plans. The Forum also focused on using film and social media for advocacy and resource mobilization, promoting improved data collection for improved surveillance, and setting rabies elimination priorities for 2026.

One topic discussed at the Forum was on engaging local authorities and communities to prioritize rabies elimination at the ground level. This topic is closely aligned with GARC’s strategic priorities and our CEO, Dr Andre Coetzer presented on our Communities Against Rabies initiative. He highlighted how GARC’s Data and Education Platforms are creating meaningful change in several global communities. GARC provides resources, training, and tools to help communities take the lead in rabies prevention and elimination in countries where rabies is still an everyday harsh reality.

For GARC, participating in the Forum is about more than just presenting on our efforts. We see them as opportunities to learn from partners, exchange experiences, and strengthen collaborations. We believe that local knowledge is as valuable as expertise, and that true impact comes from working with community members to address their specific needs.

We are committed to working with partners everywhere to build capacity, support local initiatives, and ensure that communities have the tools and knowledge to protect themselves from rabies. Participating in global events like these reinforces our shared goal: ending rabies through collaboration, empowerment, and expertise.