Animal Welfare Network

Launched in 2024, the Animal Welfare Network (AWN) was established to foster collaboration and enhance information-sharing among EU Member State authorities responsible for animal welfare. The AWN focuses on the welfare of animals at various stages of their life, including farming, transportation, and slaughter, ensuring humane treatment throughout.

AWN members can request support from counterparts in other countries and exchange best practices to improve animal welfare conditions. This collaborative network helps harmonize standards and ensures the effective implementation of EU animal welfare regulations across the bloc.

The AWN operates under a comprehensive legal framework, including key EU Regulations and Directives:

• Regulation (EU) 2018/723 on the protection of animals at the time of killing as regards the approval of low atmospheric pressure stunning
• Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations
• Directive 2007/43/EC laying down minimum rules for the protection of chickens kept for meat production
• Directive 2008/119/EC laying down minimum standards for the protection of calves
• Directive 1999/74/EC laying down minimum standards for the protection of laying hens
• Directive 2008/120/EC laying down minimum standards for the protection of pigs
• Directive 98/58/EC concerning the protection of animals kept for farming purposes

By leveraging this legislative framework, the AWN promotes consistent and effective action across Member States to address animal welfare concerns, ensuring ongoing improvements in care standards.