In response to the increasing threat of H5N1 virus FAO implemented a set of eight projects under the Technical Cooperation Programme for South, East and South-east Asia, East Europe and Caucasus, for Middle East and for East, West and North Africa. These projects had the objective of improving the epidemiological surveillance and strengthening the capacities to prepare emergency plans against the dissemination of HPAI in the region associated with wild bird migration and trade of poultry. These workshops were carried out by CIRAD in partnership with FAO, the Royal Veterinary College and Wetlands International. Training in methods for wild animal and epidemiological investigations was conducted at the same time in order to reinforce exchanges between the different epidemiologic centres, wildlife departments and laboratories to enhance regional collaboration. We used a multidisciplinary approach including lectures, group discussions, practical application using computer assisted learning tool (RANEMA), software and practical session on the field. Between June 2005 and September 2006, eight work-shops were organised involving a total of 170 participants and targeting 89 countries who were able to share their experience in relation to surveillance, control and communication tries. The training has benefited a lot from the presence of representatives from infected. (Texte intégral)