Animal welfare legislation is evolving globally in response to advances in welfare science and growing public concern, with significant changes anticipated in coming decades.
The legislative trajectory for animal welfare is clearly upward globally, driven by accumulating scientific evidence for animal sentience and growing public concern. The challenge is ensuring that legislative advances are implemented consistently, enforced adequately, and not undermined by trade arrangements that allow imports from lower-standard jurisdictions. Engaging with the legislative process as citizens and advocates is one of the most impactful welfare actions available.