Over the past four decades, EU animal welfare legislation has evolved on the basis of sound scientific knowledge. EU standards have improved the quality of animals’ lives, in line with citizens’ expectations and market needs. Already recognised as a global leader in the field of animal welfare, the European Commission continues to address animal welfare as a top priority. To ensure that animal welfare legislation is enforced in a uniform way across the EU, the European Commission has since 2006 funded training initiatives and workshops both within and outside the EU.

From farm to fork, everyone is responsible for animal welfare. Animal welfare laws are meaningless without the commitment of farmers, veterinarians, transporters, public enforcement officers, retailers, researchers, educators and citizens. The EU supports many innovative programmes for the improvement of animal care.

The Commission marked the mid-point of the EU Strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015 at a conference in Brussels. The event brought together key stakeholders to review the achievements of the strategy to date, and to identify remaining challenges. Government authorities, non-governmental organisations and those who work with animals every day had the opportunity to discuss practical issues related to animal welfare and identify key areas for action to improve animal conditions for the strategy’s remaining term and beyond.

During the conference, the Commission launched a DVD which showcases people who face this reality every working day.

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