GAIA Welcomes the Appointment of a dedicated European Commissioner for Animal Welfare

Brussels, 11 september 2024 – ​ GAIA is delighted that there will finally be a European Commissioner dedicated to animal welfare. The portfolio will be assigned to Olivér Várhelyi (Hungary), who will serve as Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare.

This marks a major victory for GAIA after years of advocacy through its EuForAnimals campaign, aimed at the creation of this specific role. The campaign started in 2021 and successfully garnered the support of nearly sixty animal protection organizations across Europe, along with the backing of 310,000 European citizens and 200 Members of the European Parliament.

For GAIA, this appointment represents a significant step forward in the defense of animal rights in Europe and paves the way for an ambitious and progressive policy on this important issue.

Animal welfare gains more significance with a dedicated Commissioner

GAIA emphasises that the Belgian model, with three regional ministers responsible for animal welfare, has led to groundbreaking legislation and has positioned Belgium as one of the leaders in animal protection. Millions of European citizens prioritise animal welfare, and this clear decision by the European Commission sends a strong signal that the EU is committed to better protecting animals and that animal welfare does not play a subordinate role.

A Historic Step Forward for Animal Rights

GAIA hails this appointment as a historic moment for the animal rights movement. With a European Commissioner dedicated to animal welfare, long-awaited reforms and policy measures can finally take shape. This paves the way for ambitious changes that will significantly improve the quality of life for animals in Europe.

Ann De Greef, director of GAIA, and Michel Vandenbosch, president of GAIA, stated: " Ursula von der Leyen has delivered a decisive message that animal welfare is now a top priority. This decision goes beyond merely acknowledging the demands of European citizens; it sets the stage for a future where animals are recognized not as mere commodities, but as sentient beings with rights and feelings. We are absolutely thrilled by this monumental step and eagerly anticipate the transformative changes it will bring. After years of relentless advocacy, the creation of this commissioner role marks a significant victory, proving that our efforts have finally paid off."