Hundreds of millions of chickens are raised in low- and middle-income countries under conditions that often lack basic welfare protections. Improving poultry welfare globally requires context-sensitive approaches.
Poultry in the global south face distinct welfare challenges including extreme heat, limited disease control, and inadequate slaughter facilities. While backyard systems may allow more natural behaviors, they can also mean higher disease burden and predator stress. Culturally appropriate, resource-light welfare interventions are needed.