Farm Animal Welfare Global Progress Assessment 2026

An evidence-based assessment of global farm animal welfare progress in 2026 shows mixed signals across regions and species.

Key Facts

The EU Farm to Fork Strategy has driven significant policy development but implementation is ongoing
Several major food companies have met or are on track to meet cage-free egg commitments
Aquaculture welfare standards are developing but coverage of tropical species remains inadequate
Antibiotic use in livestock production has declined significantly in Europe
Asian markets including China are developing domestic animal welfare frameworks for the first time
The global farm animal welfare NGO sector has grown substantially in funding and reach over the past decade

Welfare Considerations

Global farm animal welfare progress in 2026 is best characterised as uneven - significant improvements in regulated markets and at corporate level, combined with ongoing welfare crises in unregulated sectors and lower-income countries. The challenge is to maintain and accelerate progress in leading regions while building capacity and political will in lagging ones. The overall trajectory is positive but insufficient given the scale of global farm animal suffering.

What You Can Do

Support global farm animal welfare organisations working across multiple regions
Engage with trade policy advocacy to include welfare standards in international trade agreements
Choose food products with credible welfare certification wherever possible
Donate to organisations building welfare capacity in lower-income producer countries
Stay informed about global welfare developments and share progress and challenges with others