Universal Declaration for Animal Welfare (UDAW)

IFAW campaigning for the Universal Declaration for Animal Welfare

It is shocking to consider that even now there is no global, intergovernmental recognition of the importance of animal welfare legislation. IFAW believes this must change, which is why we support the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW). The adoption of this formal declaration at the UN General Assembly would establish animal welfare on the global political agenda.

The declaration process was originally launched by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) in 2000. IFAW is part of the UDAW steering committee and is collaborating with other animal organisations in support of the Declaration.

The Declaration is an important way for governments to express their commitment to protecting animal welfare and is a vital springboard to changes in international and national policies and animal legislation. It would help strengthen enforcement of animal welfare measures and promote humane treatment of animals in every corner of the world.