The Finnish Centre for Animal Welfare (EHK) has published the Animal Welfare in Finland III report also in English, offering a comprehensive update on the state of animal welfare in Finland. Previously published in parts on the elaintieto.fi website (2021-2023, in Finnish), this report builds upon its predecessors (published in 2012 and 2016), providing valuable insights into various aspects of animal welfare.
Animal and human welfare are connected in several ways
The Animal welfare in Finland III report delves into a myriad of topics including animal welfare research, education, politics, economics, and regulations. The animal welfare trends section in the beginning of the report provides a quick overview of all topics covered.
Following current global affairs, the now published report explores emerging issues such as the well-being of wild animals, and the intersection of pressing global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, antimicrobial resistance, and zoonoses with animal welfare.
There is no doubt that there is an intrinsic link between human activities and animal welfare. From food production to companion and hobby animals, considering animal welfare in our daily lives is of crucial importance. The introduction of the “one welfare” concept underscores a shared responsibility towards the well-being of all beings, highlighting the intrinsic link between the welfare of humans, animals, and the environment:
“Regardless of species, the biological basis for welfare and health is the same for both humans and other animals. Applying the concepts of one welfare, health and biology to the daily decisions we make in all our activities, from the individual to the global level, can mitigate the current negative impact of human activity.” (p.47).
Animal welfare reflects the mental and physical state of an animal
Central to the understanding of animal welfare is recognizing animals’ experiences of their mental and physical states. Beyond simply minimizing negative emotions like pain and fear, it is important to promote positive experiences in the lives of animals, such as pleasure, social attachments and environments that allow for natural behaviors and adaptations.
Authored by experts in the field of animal welfare, “Animal Welfare in Finland III” report invites stakeholders, and anyone who the topic may interest, to delve into each section for more in-depth information and understanding of animal welfare.
Read the report in whole here: Animal Welfare in Finland III