Enhancing investments in global animal welfare

Held recently in Paris, France, under the theme “Investing in Animal Health to Secure Everyone’s Future,” the 93^rd General Session brought together technical experts, veterinary authorities, scientists, and livestock industry representatives from 182 countries. The event served as a platform to exchange views and strengthen international cooperation on animal health and animal welfare standards.

During the General Session, WOAH Members discussed and adopted several amendments to the "Terrestrial Animal Health Code", including provisions related to measures and procedures for the export, transit, and import of animals, as well as Chapter 7.5 Animal Welfare during Slaughter.

These updates are expected to help countries strengthen their veterinary governance systems, facilitate safe trade in animals and livestock products, and meet the growing expectations of markets and consumers for responsible livestock production practices.

The International Coalition for Animal Welfare (ICFAW) participated in the event with a delegation of 31 representatives from international and regional organizations.

Throughout the session, ICFAW maintained a kiosk to share technical resources, foster dialogue, and engage with stakeholders on best practices in animal welfare.

The session also featured a series of side events, including “Investing in Animal Welfare: From Standards to Implementation” and “Enhancing Animal Welfare during Transport”.

At the side event on Investing in Animal Welfare: From Standards to Implementation, speakers from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the European Union (EU), Brazil, the International Meat Secretariat (IMS), and Humane World for Animals emphasized that investing in animal welfare is not merely a technical requirement or operational expense. Rather, it is a strategic investment that can enhance productivity, reduce disease risks, improve sustainability, and expand market access.

Dr. Sara Shields, Managing Director of Animal Welfare Science at Humane World for Animals and one of ICFAW’s founding members, noted that investments in higher-welfare production systems, such as preimplantation group housing for sows, demonstrate that animal welfare and productivity are not competing objectives. Such systems can simultaneously improve animal welfare, production performance, and long-term market competitiveness.

Another side event, “Enhancing Animal Welfare in Transport” brought together experts from diverse sectors and regions to share experiences, technical solutions, and practical lessons learned in improving livestock transport conditions.

Discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration among government authorities, the livestock sector, academia, and civil society organizations in promoting practical and context-appropriate solutions while balancing production efficiency, trade objectives, and animal welfare outcomes.

ICFAW’s active participation in the 93rd WOAH General Session further reaffirmed its role in fostering international cooperation, policy dialogue, and the implementation of practical solutions to improve animal health and animal welfare. These issues are becoming increasingly important for the sustainable development of the livestock sector at both regional and global levels.

ICFAW is a global coalition of leading animal welfare organizations, with a presence in more than 150 countries and a network of thousands of experts, scientists, and veterinarians. Through its collaboration with WOAH, ICFAW supports the development and implementation of international animal welfare standards while sharing practical solutions and expertise with member countries.