New report on science-policy interface on farm animal welfare in the EU

The Italian Ministry of Health announced the publication of the report "The science–policy interface on farm animal welfare in the EU."

The document was commissioned by the Standing Committee on Agricultural Research (SCAR) – Collaborative Working Group on Animal Health and Welfare (CWG AHW), an advisory body to the European Commission and Member States. The Directorate-General for Animal Health – Office 2 also actively participated in the drafting of the document.

In the European Union, animal husbandry and food safety are regulated by a large body of laws and regulations. In this context, animal welfare science has become increasingly important, driven by society's expectations regarding ethical farming, sustainability, and responsible veterinary practices. It also plays a key role in shaping science-based policies.

Although veterinary protocols for disease control are in place, these generally do not extend to animal welfare procedures, such as humane handling, euthanasia, or carcass disposal in emergency situations. This highlights the need to develop coordinated contingency plans at both the European and national levels, ensuring that animal welfare considerations are systematically integrated into crisis response frameworks. EUPAHW includes initiatives aimed at addressing these issues.

The report analyzes the relationship between scientific research and the European decision-making process on farm animal welfare, with the aim of identifying tools and strategies to promote the development of evidence-based EU legislation and support the evolution of the European Union legislative framework.

The analysis is based on a literature review and interviews with representatives of the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the EU Reference Centres for Animal Welfare (EURCAW), the European Partnership for Animal Health and Welfare, the research community, and key industry organizations.

Based on the evidence collected, the document makes recommendations in four priority areas: governance and coordination, research organization and funding, knowledge and data development, and increased attention to the economic and social aspects that influence animal welfare policies.