Global Perspectives

Animal Welfare in the Global South: Challenges and Approaches

Animal welfare in developing countries faces resource constraints and different cultural contexts; international support and local leadership are both essential.

Key Facts

Seventy percent of the worlds livestock are in low and middle income countries
Working animal welfare is a development issue affecting rural livelihoods directly
Street dog populations in Asia and Africa involve millions of animals with minimal care
International welfare organizations are increasingly partnering with local NGOs

Welfare Considerations

Animal welfare in the global south requires approaches that work within local cultural, economic, and institutional contexts. Imposing Western welfare standards without local engagement is ineffective. Welfare improvements that enhance animal productivity and human livelihoods have the strongest local support. International organizations working with local partners on working animal welfare, street dog sterilization, and livestock health programs achieve durable results.

What You Can Do

Support organizations working on animal welfare in low and middle income countries
Engage with welfare programs that partner with local NGOs and communities
Donate to international working animal welfare programs
Follow organizations like WSPA/World Animal Protection operating globally