From silos to shared problem framing: One Health policy priorities of European health professionals from transdisciplinary simulations

Abstract

Operationalising One Health (OH) remains challenging, even in countries with strong sectoral capacities, because successful implementation depends not only on specialised knowledge but also on governance, coordination, and shared problem framing. In Switzerland, federalism and professional silos further complicate cross-sectoral collaboration. This Policy Forum reflects on a role-play exercise conducted during an OH continuing education programme. Participants identified and prioritised OH challenges relevant to Switzerland, selected intensive livestock production as a focal issue, mapped key stakeholders, and engaged in a facilitated multi-actor role-play. The exercise showed how sectoral mandates initially dominated discussion and how active facilitation supported a shift in the discussion towards more integrative, system-oriented dialogue. As fundamental value conflicts persisted, the simulation revealed trade-offs, power asymmetries, and feasibility constraints. Partial alignment emerged around policy instruments rather than shared end goals. The findings suggest that the value of participatory OH learning lies in strengthening the capacity to navigate disagreement and complexity. Structured and facilitated dialogue can support shared problem framing and foster more reflexive OH governance, with direct relevance for policy preparation and training. This article demonstrates how OH challenges are shaped by governance processes, stakeholder interactions, and problem framing across sectors. It is relevant for policy makers, practitioners, and educators involved in OH implementation. By bringing together public health, veterinary, environmental, governmental, and societal perspectives in a simulated policy dialogue, the exercise revealed power dynamics and feasibility constraints that are unlikely to emerge in single-actor settings. The integration of academic and practical expertise supported the co-production of policy-relevant insights and strengthened participants’ capacity for cross-sectoral collaboration and reflexive OH governance.