Why is the Commission launching this Platform?

As indicated by the Eurobarometer survey published in March 2016, an absolute majority of Europeans considers the protection of animal welfare very important and would like to see improvements in the way the welfare of animals is protected.

Improving animal welfare is not only a matter of legislation. And the Platform is not a forum for developing new legislation. As stated in the motto of the EU animal welfare strategy adopted in 2012 "Everyone is responsible". To get concrete results, mutual understanding and trustbetween all players as well as concrete engagement by each actor is an essential first step and it is one of the key objectives of the Platform.

The Platform aims to promote dialogue among competent authorities, businesses, civil society and scientists on animal welfare issues that are relevant for EU citizens.

The Platform will assist the Commission with the development and exchange of coordinated actions on animal welfare with focus on: