Posted on the 13th May 2015
On May 11, the scientific validity of animal experimentation was debated in a groundbreaking hearing at the European Parliament. This debate took place as a result of the Stop Vivisection initiative, which gained signatures from more than 1 million EU citizens.
Scientific expert Dr Ray Greek took the lead in explaining the case against vivisection, giving the initial presentation. Dr Andre Menache, CEO of Antidote Europe, and Emily McIvor of the Humane Society International also presented a compelling case for abandoning the cruel and unreliable practice of vivisection. The debate, of course, included speakers who were tasked with defending animal research.
Whilst the hearing represented a vital step forward, the time allocated was not sufficient to make a comprehensive scientific case against the use of animals in research. Dr Menache closed the debate by calling for a more comprehensive hearing, over several days, in which the complex science could be explained in more depth.
We understand that many MEPs were extremely receptive to the case against vivisection, which provides a very positive basis for future discussions. But even before the hearing had taken place, it was already causing a great deal of anxiety amongst the pro-vivisection lobby, with prominent scientists desperately defending the use of animals in theĀ Times,Ā New ScientistĀ andĀ NatureĀ (although theĀ TimesĀ also published a letter from Animal Aid, which outlined the counter-argument).
The EU debate is an exciting step forward, but much work still remains to be done. PleaseĀ order anĀ End Animal ExperimentsĀ action packĀ today, and find out how you can help.
Timing of key speakers:
Most of us call ourselves animal lovers and want animals to be treated well, but many people may not have considered the difference between animal welfare and animal rights.
Posted 10 Dec 2024
We are pleased to announce we have published our āRoadmap to phase out animal testingā.
Posted 03 Dec 2024
