Legal recognition of animal sentience is transforming how farmed animals are protected by law in countries that have adopted sentience-based frameworks.
Legal recognition of animal sentience is more than symbolic. Sentience-based frameworks require decision-makers to consider animal welfare impacts explicitly, creating accountability for welfare outcomes in policy. Countries with sentience-based legal frameworks have stronger welfare protections and greater public support for welfare reforms. The trend toward sentience recognition in law represents a foundational shift in the legal status of farmed animals.