Towards eradication of bovine tuberculosis in the European Union

This paper reviews the developments and progress towards eradication of bovine tuberculosis in the European Union (EU). A historical view of the EU legislation aimed at mainly approximating provisions on intra-community in cattle trade explains the present EU policies. The variety of cattle breeding systems and environmental conditions in the EU leads to different epidemiological situations. The current situation of bovine tuberculosis in the EU Member States is summarised, and current policy in the EU is outlined.