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Mandate and tasks of the FSVO

The primary task of the FSVO is to actively promote the health and wellbeing of humans and animals. The Swiss Confederation's constitution, legislation, ordinances and treaties provide the basis for his work.

The FSVO creates a framework for guaranteeing a high level of food safety and consumer protection against deception. The Office promotes a healthy diet. It ensures a high level of animal health and welfare in Switzerland and monitors cross-border trade in food and animals. It makes sure that animals are free from diseases, particularly those that could present a risk to humans. The Office supports market liberalisation and makes Switzerland's concerns heard in international bodies. It controls trade in protected species.

Healthy animals – healthy humans – safe food

The Swiss Confederation's constitution, legislation, ordinances and treaties provide the basis for the work that the FSVO performs for the benefit of humans and animals. The Office is tasked with preparing this legal foundation.
In serving the public, the FSVO is also committed to open, comprehensive and scientific fact-based communication. To help it achieve this commitment, it engages in applied research to assess health risks and supports research projects in its area of responsibility.

Enforcement

The FSVO is responsible for the enforcement of inspections by the border veterinary service, the Washington Convention within the framework of the Federal CITES Act and the Ordinance on the declaration of furs.

One Health

Die enge Zusammenarbeit zwischen der Veterinär- und Humanmedizin ist Voraussetzung für die Erhaltung und Förderung der Gesundheit von Mensch und Tier, für die Einsparung von Ressourcen und den Erhalt einer intakten Umwelt. Dieser interdisziplinäre Ansatz nennt sich One Health.