The EFTA Court has ruled that blood extractions from pregnant mares to obtain the hormone PMSG are to be classified as scientific procedures. As a result, they are subject to the applicable animal welfare regulations for experimental animals. This is an important step for the blood mares in Iceland.

How well do German slaughterhouses protect animals from extreme heat? Our investigation shows that many slaughterhouses lack effective measures or that the measures in place are insufficient. This can be life-threatening for the animals. We call for effective heat protection and species-specific temperature limits to ensure that animals are not…

In an open letter, we—along with 15 other animal welfare organizations—are calling for binding animal welfare standards in the Mercosur agreement. During the fall session, the Council of States will debate the free trade agreement with the Mercosur countries. Among other things, it is intended to facilitate market access for beef from Argentina,…

A journalist from the “Neue Zürcher Zeitung” (NZZ) accompanied our project manager, Maria Boada-Saña, on a field assignment in Cartagena for his report on the export of live animals by sea. The resulting article provides insight into an otherwise hidden industry in which sentient beings are treated merely as “commodities.”

The Icelandic Veterinary Authority (MAST) has unexpectedly granted the pharmaceutical company Ísteka a new, two-year license to collect blood from pregnant mares. In doing so, it is acting in violation of current law. We will not accept this. Together with partner organizations, we are taking legal action against this decision.

Our Livestock Carrier Fleet Report 2026 has received international media attention. Numerous media outlets and other NGOs have reported on our investigation into the global fleet of livestock vessels and the serious animal welfare concerns identified. Below you will find a selection of media coverage from around the world.

Following the long-standing ban on the transport of sheep and goats from Romania within Europe, the European Commission has now also prohibited exports from Romania to third countries. A new investigation at the Port of Midia underscores why these disease control measures were necessary. It reveals serious failures in animal traceability,…

AWF project manager, Tea Dronjić, participated in the 19th EU Platform on Animal Welfare. At the event, which was organized and chaired by the European Commission, representatives from all EU member states, the European Commission, scientists, industry representatives, and experts from selected animal welfare organizations discussed the future of…

A heat wave is currently sweeping across Germany. At the same time, barbecue season is in full swing, demand for meat is high—and so is the number of animal transports to slaughterhouses. For animals already stressed by transport, the high temperatures pose an additional, significant burden. Our partner organization, the Animal Welfare Foundation,…