Strong voices for animal protection: EU consultation runs until December!

Strong voices for animal protection: EU consultation runs until December!

In recent weeks, the issue of animal protection has gained a lot of attention in the European Union. With an important one Consultation on animal husbandry, which runs until December 12, 2025, around 5,000 citizens have already accepted the invitation to submit their opinions and suggestions on revised animal protection law. This public consultation, which began on September 19, 2025, addresses everyone: from animal owners to NGOs to consumer advocates.

The consultation covers some key topics that are of interest to many. These include phasing out cage farming, digital recording of animal-related indicators, stricter import requirements for animal products and stopping the killing of male day-old chicks. The latter is a particularly sensitive topic that has been discussed for some time. The changes sought by the EU are the result of a finding from 2022 that showed that existing animal welfare standards are no longer up to date.

Celebrity support and participation

As a prominent voice for this initiative, the actor and influencer Jonas Ems recently called for participation. With the support of animal protection organizations such as the Albert Schweitzer Foundation, public awareness is to be raised and more people involved can be motivated. However, an EU login is required when taking part in the questionnaire, which means an additional step for interested citizens.

The data and feedback collected through this consultation are not only important for the EU, they should also be specifically incorporated into political decision-making. The results must be documented and influence legislation so that proposals for new regulations or guidelines are well-founded and consistent with the consultation results.

A look into the future

The European Commission plans to submit concrete legislative proposals by the end of 2026. The consultation is an important step in gathering practical information and sustainably improving animal husbandry in the EU. A central concern of these new regulations is the gradual phase-out of cage farming, which affects not only laying hens, but also pullets, calves, rabbits and various types of poultry.

In addition to cage keeping, the condition of the crates for sows will also be examined, which is of great relevance for many animal owners. The consultation provides a platform to consider different perspectives and experiences, which is essential given the challenges in agriculture and animal welfare. This comprehensive feedback could help raise animal welfare in Europe to a new level and ensure that animal husbandry is in line with contemporary standards.

Given the ongoing discussions about animal welfare rights and standards, it is hoped that broad participation in the consultation will bring about positive changes. In conclusion, every contribution counts and ultimately the voices of people in this area could have weight in sustainably improving the living conditions of our fellow creatures.

For more information and to participate in the consultation, please visit the EU website. The outcome of this initiative remains exciting and will be followed closely.