Chimpanzees used in biomedical research have been phased out in the USA and EU, with welfare challenges in transition to sanctuary life for former laboratory animals.
Chimpanzees rehabilitating from research laboratory conditions face significant psychological recovery from years of social isolation. Animals that have spent their lives in individual cages with limited social contact must learn to form complex social relationships for the first time as adults. Former research chimpanzees often have anxiety disorders, stereotypic behaviour, and post-traumatic responses to routine husbandry procedures. Sanctuary rehabilitation requires patient, skilled care over years before individuals can integrate into social groups. The cognitive sophistication of chimpanzees means their suffering in inadequate conditions has profound moral weight.