The European Commission has launched a public consultation on a new strategy for animal farming in the European Union, inviting citizens, farmers and organisations to share their views.
The initiative is part of the EU’s broader plan to reshape agriculture and food systems, with an animal farming strategy expected in 2026.
Animal farming plays a key role in food production and rural economies, but the sector is also facing growing pressure. Challenges include climate change, rising costs, global competition and increasing concerns about animal welfare.
Public invited to “have your say”
Through its online “Have Your Say” platform, the Commission is asking for feedback to help shape the policy. The platform allows citizens and stakeholders to contribute ideas and opinions at an early stage of EU policymaking.
The consultation will help the Commission understand key issues in the sector and guide future legislation.
The upcoming strategy is expected to include elements related to animal welfare, environmental protection and food security.
Earlier EU plans have already pointed to possible reforms, including updating animal welfare rules and aligning them with scientific evidence and public expectations.
People responding to the consultation share different views, but several key themes appear.
Many farmers and industry groups say the EU should balance animal welfare and environmental goals with economic reality. They warn that stricter rules increase costs and make it harder for farms to survive, especially when imports from countries with lower standards are still allowed.
Several comments call for fair competition, including equal standards for imported products, and more financial support and long-term planning for farmers.
Others focus on sustainability and climate change, suggesting solutions such as better use of manure, more grazing systems, lower emissions, and stronger links to the EU Green Deal.
Some contributors highlight the need for innovation and technology, such as AI and precision animal farming, to improve animal welfare and efficiency.
Animals as sentient beings
At the same time, animal welfare advocates argue that the strategy should better protect animals as sentient beings, including ending long-distance transport of live animals.
Marie Christine Adam from Germany argues that the EU’s animal farming strategy should fully recognise animals as sentient beings and give stronger protection to their welfare under EU law.
She highlights long-distance transport of live animals as a major concern, especially by sea. According to her, many livestock ships are old and unsafe, and past disasters, such as the sinking of a ship carrying thousands of sheep, show that these journeys can lead to serious suffering and death.
She says animals are often exposed to heat, delays, injuries and dehydration, and may be trapped for weeks if problems occur during transport.
Adam also raises concerns about transport by land within the EU. She points to reports of long journey times, poor enforcement of rules and inconsistent standards between countries, which can lead to unnecessary suffering.
In some cases, animals are transported long distances simply because slaughter is cheaper in another country.
She concludes that long-distance transport of live animals cannot meet EU animal welfare standards. Instead, she calls for a shift toward transporting meat and genetic material rather than live animals, saying the current system is both ethically and practically unacceptable.
People can share their views with the Commission until 10 April 2026.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: theanimalreader.com
