Species : Multiple species

Article returning to the need for a distinction in French between the term "bien être", describing an individual's experienced state of well-being or welfare, and "bientraitance", describing the positive actions taken by another individual or body to benefit the first, which may or may not be successful in achieving this outcome. "Bientraitance" thus represents the point of view of the indivual or body who acts, while "bien-être" represents the point of view of the individual who experiences the action. 

Question from a French Deputy on acts of abuse in certain abattoirs.  In its answer, the government reminds the Deputy of the existence of a control and intervention system in abattoirs, stating that it remains vigilant over the application of the three key actions in operation since 2021 with regard to abattoirs: support, control, sanction.

Answer from the French Government to a question from a member of the National Assembly on abattoir monitoring and controls. The Ministry states that the work to control slaughtering conditions by government-appointed agents amounts to the equivalent of more than 1,200 full-time posts. Additionally, a national inspection force is brought in for complex cases, which can impose sanctions up to and including closure  in the event of serious failings.

Report on the uses to which funding from the EAFRD (European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development) is put by certain French Regional authorities. The study, which focuses on capital and set-up grants, highlights the levers available regionally to support the transition to more sustainable forms of livestock farming that respect animal welfare.

Review of the trade in ornamental fish, who are exposed to numerous stressors throughout the supply chain, from wild capture or aquaculture to their final destination. Despite the work of some groups, legislative frameworks and welfare standards are still required to improve their living conditions in a sustainable way.

Article analyzing how abattoir workers develop an emotional distance from the killing of animals through intense and often unconscious emotional work. It highlights the importance of background emotions in morally sensitive occupations, making an original contribution to the sociology of work and emotions.

Question from a Member of Parliament on support for farmers to achieve an effective  transition to cage-free farming in France. The government points out that cage-free farming is growing in France. It provides supporte for this process through assistance with capital expenditure and national coordination, while calling for harmonization at European level so that farms can remain competitive.  

European Parliament study assessing the implementation of Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 on animal transport, revealing  continued compliance problems, particularly for vulnerable animals. It recommends that regulatory definitions should be clarified, while inspections and data recording should be harmonised to improve the effectiveness of the legislation.

Article updating a 2021 study. It proposes practical improvements that can be made to the welfare of cephalopods and crustaceans, and identifies research priorities as a guide for good practice.

This overview summarizes the three steps involved in developing animal welfare assessment tools: arriving at a shared definition of welfare, establishing theoretical and ethical frameworks, and  designing validated tools.