? Looking Back on 2024: A Year of Hope and Progress for Animals ?

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on a year that brought both challenges and breakthroughs for animals in Europe. Affecting change through political advocacy can be frustrating as change is so slow and long-term by nature. 2024 reminded me that perseverance and collective action can lead to meaningful progress.

Here are a few moments that stand out:

?? Building Momentum in European Politics

This year, the support for animal welfare in the European Parliament grew stronger than ever. Thanks to our #VoteforAnimals campaign, 102 candidates who pledged their commitment to animal welfare were elected. With their help, we’re better positioned to push for policies that combat unnecessary animal suffering and protect Europe’s wildlife.

The re-establishment of the Intergroup for the Welfare and Conservation of Animals, with over 90 MEPs, was another high point. It’s inspiring to see so many voices uniting for animals at the political level.

And just last week, during a debate in the EP, Animal Welfare Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi promised to deliver the first revised animal welfare proposals by 2026, finally committing to a concrete timeline after such a long delay to better protect millions of farm animals such as chickens and fish.? This is excellent news for the animal protection movement. We will truly hold the European Commission to account, and expect all of the remaining legislative proposals to be delivered, with no animal left behind, and tangible actions that respond to the demands of citizens who asked for a ban of cages and fur farms.

??? A Food System Ripe for Change The Strategic Dialogue on the? Future of EU Agriculture has highlighted an urgent need to address the farmed animal welfare crisis. From cage systems to systemic reforms, we’re making sure animal welfare remains at the heart of these conversations.

?? A Historic Shift in EU Leadership For the first time, animal welfare is officially recognized in an EU Commissioner’s title. This acknowledgment is a testament to years of hard work by advocates across Europe, especially to our member GAIA —and it sets the stage for even greater achievements in the years ahead.

?? Tackling the Issue of Live Animal Transport The transportation of live animals remains a heartbreaking issue. Although current proposals fall short, we are doubling down on our efforts to ensure future legislation puts an end to this unnecessary suffering.

?? Safeguarding Companion Animals and Wildlife Progress was made this year toward better protection for pets, with the first ever legislative proposals addressing the traceability of dogs and cats. Meanwhile, our work defending Europe’s wolves has been a reminder that the fight for peaceful coexistence with wildlife is far from over.

?? A Future Without Animal Testing We also took steps toward phasing out animal testing in chemical safety assessments. These discussions are vital for shaping a future that values science without compromising ethics.

None of these milestones would have been possible without the incredible dedication of animal advocacy professionals, our 102 member organizations across Europe, and the generosity of our supporters. Our members keep inspiring and motivating me every day.?

As we look ahead to 2025, there is so much more to achieve—but with this strong foundation, I’m confident that we can continue building a better future for animals. Together, we’re proving that progress is not just a possibility; it’s a responsibility.

Thank you for being part of this journey.