Drivers of change: Law, international markets, and policy

Abstract

• There is widespread contact with animals throughout human society, for example, in the production of food, clothing, and pharmaceuticals; for companionship and security; in research and education; in religious activities; or for sports and entertainment. • In setting animal welfare recommendations and standards, governments and others acknowledge and take account, to varying degrees, the many and varied viewpoints through broad stakeholder consultation. • Decisions on animal welfare standards occur in a context where politicians, regulators and others are influenced by adverse welfare events that are publicized in the media and by lobbying by animal industry and animal rights groups. This means that it is often difficult to establish a balanced dialogue in the public arena. Nevertheless, these viewpoints are influential in driving change in animal welfare and are expressed in developments in legislation policy and international markets.