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7276574 
Book/Book Chapter 
The European Union legislation on animal welfare: State of play, enforcement and future activities 
Simonin, D; Gavinelli, A 
2019 
La Fondation Driot Animal Éthique & Sciences (LFDA) 
Paris, France 
Animal welfare: From science to law 
59-70 
English 
The European Union (EU) has since 1974 established a wide range of legislative provisions concerning animal welfare. Under the EU treaties, animals are recognised as sentient beings, and in consequence, the EU and the Member States must pay due regard to the welfare requirements of animals when preparing and implementing EU policies in for example, agriculture or internal market. Today EU legislation on the welfare of farm animals covers with specific provisions the farming of poultry, calves and pigs as well as, for all species, transport and slaughter operations. This legislation is one of the most advanced in the world. In particular the EU has banned traditional cages for laying hens and requires group housing for pregnant sows.

While Member States are primarily responsible for the daily implementation of these rules, the Commission monitors the implementation of the legislation. Experts from the European Commission perform regular audits to check that the competent authorities are performing appropriate official controls. Non-compliant Member States may be brought to the Court of Justice of the EU. The Commission also contributes to raise awareness of animal welfare through training programmes, scientific advice and legal interpretations.

The European Commission adopted an EU strategy for the protection and welfare of animals for the period 2012-2015. Some actions remain to be completed and the present priority is therefore to achieve all the actions listed in the strategy before considering new ones. In parallel the Commission will continue to prioritise enforcement, strengthen and broaden dialogue with stakeholders and better valorise animal welfare at global level. 
Hild, S; Schweitzer, L 
9782951216747