Animal and plant diseases can have detrimental impacts on livelihoods through a complex interaction of demographic trends, agriculture practices and the disease agent. Differences in the rate of demographic shifts including rates of population growth, economic growth, urbanisation, environmental sustainability, and role of women in society are strong driving forces that impact the success of animal and plant disease control programs and productivity in agriculture. Animal and plant diseases can negatively impact commerce and trade in all countries, and in low income countries limited infrastructure and resources as well as competing priorities for resources provide additional challenges to controlling or eradicating many agricultural diseases. The adverse impacts of animal and plant diseases can be largely overcome through programs that support job growth along the value added chain of food production and will require significant investments in science education and advancement. Through a better understanding of animal and plant diseases in their local environment, scientists contribute an integral role in supporting countries’ progress.
