Forced displacements at the human-animal interface: a narrative review of knowledge gaps and One Health insights

Environmental emergencies and conflicts are major drivers of human and animal displacements, increasing the spread of communicable diseases. In such contexts, livestock keepers are among the most vulnerable communities. As a matter of fact, when animals are moved, tensions between groups may escalate and disease spread can intensify. In contrast, when livestock are left behind, households face severe economic decline and increased poverty. This article explores the phenomenon of forced displacements at the human-animal interface, potential gaps and opportunities. This narrative review is based on a search of PubMed and grey literature. Peer-reviewed literature published from 2015 to March 2025 and reports and documents from governmental institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and press websites in English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish were considered eligible for analysis. Thirty-four peer-reviewed papers met the inclusion criteria. The majority of the studies were based in the African Continent on the main migration routes, addressing mainly vector-borne diseases, capacity-building needs and a lack of research. Grey literature was incorporated alongside peer-reviewed papers as governments, intergovernmental organizations, NGOs and the press represent relevant actors in implementing coping strategies and raising awareness on forced animal displacements. This narrative review highlights the need for primary data collection and interdisciplinary collaboration adopting a route-based and equity-oriented One Health approach.