The welfare of animals is a cause dear to the hearts of Europeans, as highlighted by the recent Eurobarometer survey. For over four decades, the European Commission has tirelessly strived to enhance animal welfare, progressively setting global standards through legislative improvements. The survey not only underscores the significance of animal welfare but also reaffirms its pivotal role in the lives of citizens across the EU.
A CALL FOR ENHANCED WELFARE
Farmed Animal Welfare (84%): An overwhelming 84% of Europeans advocate for better protection of farmed animals in their respective countries, signalling a growing consensus for improved practices.
Transport Limits Supported (83%): An impressive 83% support restricting the transportation time of animals, reflecting a widespread commitment to humane treatment.
Pet Animal Welfare (74%): Nearly three-quarters of respondents, 74%, emphasize the need for enhanced pet animal welfare, demonstrating a deep concern for our furry companions.
Demand for Ethical Farming:
Over 90% of Europeans insist that farming and breeding practices must adhere to basic ethical standards. This includes providing animals with adequate space, nourishment, suitable environments, and humane handling. The survey also highlights significant concerns regarding welfare of animals in slaughterhouses.
Questioning Traditions:
An astounding 75% of respondents find the practice of culling male baby chicks after birth unacceptable, underlining a growing sensitivity to the issues.
The majority firmly supports a ban on cutting certain body parts of animals (tails, ears, beaks, etc.) unless strictly necessary and conducted with anaesthesia.
Regarding fur farming, 57% believe it should be strictly banned in the EU, while 32% support its continuation under improved welfare conditions.
Revamping Food Imports:
Over 84% of Europeans insist on changes in the current welfare of animals situation regarding food imports from non-EU countries. This could involve applying EU animal welfare rules to imports or implementing clear labelling according to established standards.
COMMITMENT
Even during times of high food prices due to inflation, 60% of respondents express a willingness to pay more for products sourced from animal welfare-friendly farming systems. A quarter (26%) is ready to pay up to 5% more for such products.
In the backdrop, the Farm to Fork Strategy, a cornerstone of the European Green Deal, aims to create fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly food systems. Elevating EU animal welfare standards plays a pivotal role in this strategy. The European Commission is actively engaged in revising welfare of animals legislation, with the proposal on protecting animals during transport, set to be presented in December 2023. Furthermore, the Commission’s positive response to the European Citizen’s Initiative “End the Cage Age” in 2021 signifies a commitment to ending the use of cages in intensive farming systems for various animal species.
