The VERA–EAST project – “Risk assessments in vector-borne diseases in Eastern Europe” – kicks off at USAMV Cluj-Napoca, with a meeting of the 19 participants from eight countries

From 26 to 28 May 2026, USAMV Cluj-Napoca will host the kick-off meeting of the VERA–EAST project – “Risk assessments in vector-borne diseases in Eastern Europe” – at the Biodiversity Research Centre. The event will bring together 19 participants from eight countries, representing the partner institutions involved in the project, and will mark the start of joint activities dedicated to assessing the risks associated with vector-borne diseases in Eastern Europe.

The VERA–EAST project is funded by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as part of the ‘Joint programming for risk assessments in vector-borne diseases’ initiative, Lot 4 – Risk Assessments in Eastern EU. The overall objective of this partnership is to strengthen capacities and long-term collaboration between Member States, with a view to improving the assessment of risks posed by vector-borne diseases, harmonising scientific approaches and optimising available resources.

During the meeting at USAMV Cluj-Napoca, participants will discuss the consortium’s shared vision, the project’s governance structure, the allocation of roles, the coordination of work packages and the development of a roadmap for future activities. A key objective of the meeting will be to define the scientific priorities that will help support decision-makers in managing the challenges posed by vector-borne diseases.