On 23 January 2006, the European Union (EU) adopted an action plan of concrete measures for the next five years to protect animal welfare “in all EU sectors and through EU relations with Third countries” by “upgrading minimum standards for animal welfare; promoting research and alternative approaches to animal testing; introducing standardized animal welfare indicators; better informing animal handlers and the general public on animal welfare issues; and supporting international initiatives for the protection of animals1.”

The Action Plan requested by the European Parliament and the Council specifically aims to:

  • Upgrade the minimum standards for animal welfare according to the latest scientific information and public demand, including animal species not now covered by the EU, and proper application and enforcement of these new standards.

  • Continue support of research projects on animal welfare, with the possible creation of a European Centre or Laboratory to coordinate, collect, and exchange information on research and activities related to animal welfare, with particulare attention to the “3Rs.”

  • Create a classification system for animal welfare practices that will distinguish minimum from higher standards of animal welfare.

  • Inform and train those in direct contact with animals of the issues and their responsibilities for the proper treatment of animals, and create an “Information Platform for Animal Welfare,” to facilitate the exchange of best practices of animal care. Inform and educate EU consumers on the costs and benefits of higher animal welfare standards in farming practices, and introduce improved marketing, labeling and communication strategies to meet this goal.

  • Support and initiate international proposals to increase awareness of and consensus on animal welfare issues, and work with the Council of Europe and the World Organization for Animal Health on the health and welfare of animals, and with the World Trade Organization to press for greater acceptance of animal welfare policies.

  • Help developing countries plan and implement animal welfare measures, and integrate these into trade agreements.