How we work

A coalition

ICFAW is a coalition of international global animal welfare organizations working together with the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to improve the welfare of animals globally. The coalition is dedicated to improving the welfare of farm animals (on farms, during transport and at slaughter), companion animals, working animals, wildlife and animals used for research and education, sporting and entertainment. In 2018, ICFAW signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the OIE, strengthening the collaboration between the OIE and ICFAW and ensuring the partnership continues to enhance the welfare of animals across the world.

Mission

Our mission is:

To work towards the highest possible animal welfare standards globally through active cooperative participation in the OIE’s consultation process of developing internationally recognized animal health and welfare standards.           

To provide a forum for information sharing and discussion on matters of common interest and, when there is a consensus, international cooperation among animal protection NGOs to present a strong, clear and unified common position on the implementation, enforcement and promotion of OIE animal welfare standards, to improve the lives of animals.           

To bring together the collective expertise and experience of the world-wide animal protection NGO community to contribute to OIE activities related to animal welfare.

Why the OIE?

The OIE leads the development of standards for animal welfare which have been agreed by the OIE’s 182 member countries. These standards include the welfare of farm animals (husbandry, transport and slaughter), stray dog population control, working equines, animals in research and the slaughter and transport of aquatic animals. The OIE also provides training to national Animal Welfare Focal Points. Through standard-setting and training, the OIE raises the ambition and ability of countries worldwide to meaningfully improve animal welfare.