October 25, 2021

European Commission launches consultation on revising animal welfare legislation

The European Commission has recently launched a public consultation on the revision of animal welfare legislation as part of its Farm to Fork Strategy.

The aim is to present a revised legislative proposal to EU Member States and the European Parliament within two years.

Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides said: "Animal welfare is a benchmark for civilized societies. Sustainable food production could not be achieved without it being taken into account and that is why it is a pillar of our Farm to Fork strategy.

"Our citizens care about animals and want the European Union to do more for them. Citizens' views are therefore crucial as we embark on the development of future European animal welfare standards. We will also be paying particular attention to what farmers, food operators, NGOs and public authorities have to contribute on this issue. Help us build a better future for animals in the EU by actively participating in the consultation we are launching. "

The consultation will conclude on January 21, 2022 and will gather opinions from the public and various stakeholders in relevant sectors on a wide range of topics. It follows a roadmap published last summer that received nearly 1,000 comments.

The aim of a planned revision is to ensure a higher level of animal welfare, align European legislation with the latest scientific evidence, broaden its scope and facilitate its implementation.

- European Commission