International Animal Welfare Standards Development

The World Organisation for Animal Health develops international animal welfare standards that inform national legislation globally. Understanding this framework helps advocates engage at the most impactful level.

Key Facts

The OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code contains animal welfare standards for farmed and transported animals
OIE standards are used as the baseline for international trade agreements involving animal products
185 member countries participate in OIE standard development through elected delegates
OIE standards have been strengthened over successive revisions through civil society advocacy
Key standards cover transport, slaughter, killing for disease control, and research animals

Welfare Considerations

International welfare standards set the floor for global animal welfare practice. When OIE standards are strengthened, the effect multiplies across all member countries through trade requirements and national legislation adoption. Civil society participation in OIE working group consultations is one of the most effective but underutilized forms of animal welfare advocacy. Understanding the international standards architecture enables more strategic and impactful welfare engagement.

What You Can Do

Learn about the OIE Animal Welfare standards and how they relate to national legislation
Support organizations that engage in OIE consultation processes and standard development
Advocate for your government to adopt and enforce OIE animal welfare standards
Donate to international animal welfare organizations engaged in intergovernmental standard-setting processes