Conclusion

This conference highlighted the critical importance of multi-sectoral collaboration and regional coordination in addressing biological threats and enhancing health security. Key themes emerged around the need for integrated approaches to engage health, defence, foreign affairs, agriculture, and other sectors; the importance of sustainable funding and capacity building; the value of leveraging existing ASEAN mechanisms and networks; the significance of high-level political commitments in driving regional efforts; and the role of innovation and research in strengthening biosecurity measures.

The insights and recommendations from this conference are intended to inform future policies and programs, with the hope that they will contribute to more resilient health systems and a more secure ASEAN community. Canada’s WTRP and other partners remain dedicated to facilitating these essential conversations and supporting the implementation of the discussed ideas, particularly in establishing networks such as the ASEAN Biosafety and Biosecurity Network, maximizing existing mechanisms and initiatives, and further advancing multi-sectoral collaboration, cooperation, monitoring, and advocacy.

By building on the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Strengthening Regional Biosafety and Biosecurity and fostering continued dialogue among diverse stakeholders, the region can work towards a future where there are reduced biological threats to the ASEAN region and international community, and enhanced health-security of all ASEAN Member States. A collaborative approach that combines high-level commitments with practical, multi-sectoral strategies positions ASEAN to address the complex challenges of biosecurity and health security in an increasingly interconnected world.

Venessa Olivia Tirta & Wa Ode Andi Sitti Azidah Hajaria

Wilton Park | January 2025