Open lecture on ‘National and international regulations in the field of animal welfare’
As part of the SULAWE project, an open lecture on ‘National and International Regulations in the Field of Animal Welfare’ was held on 31 March 2025.The event brought together students, teachers, scientists, representatives of animal protection organisations and all those interested in the legal regulation of animal welfare.
The lecturer was Ihor Dvilyuk, Acting Vice-Rector for Scientific and Pedagogical Work and Digitalisation, Associate Professor of the Mykhailo Demchuk Chair of Hygiene, Sanitation and General Veterinary Prevention, who spoke in detail about the key legislative acts regulating animal protection issues at both the national and international levels. The lecture covered the aspects of legal regulation of relations in the field of animal welfare.
Animal welfare is an important aspect of modern society, which aims to ensure that animals are treated humanely, properly maintained and protected from cruelty. This regulation is based on international, national and regional legislation that defines the rights and obligations of owners, farmers, researchers and anyone else who deals with animals.
One of the key international documents in this area is the World Declaration of Animal Rights, adopted by UNESCO in 1978. The Convention for the Protection of Domestic Animals of the Council of Europe, as well as European Union directives regulating the keeping of farm animals, transportation, use in research and other aspects, also play an important role.
At the national level, countries develop their own animal protection laws. For example, many countries have regulations on the responsible treatment of pets, strict conditions for livestock on farms, and the ethical use of animals in scientific experiments. The legislation provides for control mechanisms and sanctions for violations, including fines, administrative and criminal liability.
Special attention is paid to the transport of animals, as improper transport conditions can cause stress and even death. Regulation requires appropriate conditions, adequate ventilation, access to water and feed, and restrictions on the duration of transport.
In the case of farm animals, many countries prohibit certain types of cruelty, such as overcrowding, beak cutting without anaesthesia, or the use of harsh fattening methods. Alternative methods of housing, such as free-range or organic farming, are also encouraged.
Animal welfare is also an issue for zoological parks, circuses and shelters. Many countries are introducing bans or restrictions on the use of wild animals in entertainment shows and tightening requirements for captive conditions.
Developments in scientific research also influence approaches to animal welfare. For example, a growing number of countries are introducing alternative methods of testing without the use of animals in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
In general, animal welfare regulation is a dynamic process that takes into account the latest scientific achievements, ethical aspects and public demand for humane treatment of animals. Continuous improvement of the legislation and its proper implementation help to reduce animal suffering and ensure their dignified existence.
During the event, the participants actively participated in the discussion, asked questions and expressed their opinions. The lecture ended with lively discussions and debates on possible ways to comply with and improve the current legislation.
The event has become an important platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience, and helped to raise awareness of modern approaches to animal welfare.
