A (nearly) century long commitment

For almost a century, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to ending the long-distance transportation of horses for slaughter. We catch up with our EU Public Affairs Officer, Sandra Zafra, who is at the heart of our advocacy efforts within the European Union, to find out more. 

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At the heart of our founding mission lies a single, unwavering commitment: to put an end to the long-distance transport of horses for slaughter. This is a practice that has marred the welfare of thousands of horses for decades. Despite progress, particularly in the UK, it remains a grave issue across Europe – yet we are more confident than ever that, with the support of people like you, we can end these needless journeys for good. 

The current situation: a slight increase, but hope is on the horizon 

Based on our knowledge of the slaughter trade and the latest 2023 European movement figures which is obtained using data from TRACES (the European Commission’s online platform which tracks exports, imports and cross border movements of animal and plant products), we estimate that around 20,000 horses are still being transported long distances across Europe to slaughter each year. While this number represents a slight increase over recent years, we firmly believe that with continued support from the public and stakeholders, we can eliminate this practice entirely. The campaign isn’t over, but we’re closer than ever to achieving our goal – to end the long-distance transport of horses across Europe for slaughter. 

The role of EU policymakers: a pivotal moment for horse welfare 

The actions of EU Member States and newly elected Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will play a critical role in shaping the future of horse welfare in Europe. Currently, policymakers are discussing the European Commission’s proposed legislation to improve animal welfare during transport. One of the key proposals is to introduce a 9-hour limit on transport times for animals destined for slaughter, which we strongly support. We are actively engaging in ongoing negotiations to ensure this provision is kept and becomes law. We are also acutely aware that not all horses are declared as going to slaughter, even if they end their lives in a slaughterhouse and these unscrupulous traders will therefore not comply with the 9-hour limit. Alongside better traceability, we are therefore advocating for further amendments that will address additional aspects of the transport conditions that will hugely impact the welfare of horses and help disrupt horse smuggling. Our goal is clear: to ensure that horses are protected from the often physical and mental distress of long-distance journeys, with better safeguards in place throughout the process. 

Scientific evidence: paving the way for stronger protection beyond transportation 

After presenting the Good Welfare for Equids White Paper to the Commission in October last year, our charity remains deeply committed to advocating for the well-being of horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. Developed in collaboration with Eurogroup for Animals and other European animal welfare organisations, the paper outlines key changes needed to prevent the unnecessary suffering of equids. The White Paper provides crucial scientific evidence on the needs of equids, including their ability to move freely, experience a sense of freedom, and engage in natural exercise. This document plays a vital role in our advocacy efforts, as it will help inform the European Food Safety Authority’s scientific opinion on the welfare of kept equids. In turn, this opinion will influence future EU animal welfare legislation, ensuring stronger protections for equids across Europe. 

One of the most pressing issues we face is the fact that current regulations only protect equids kept for farming purposes, leaving many others vulnerable. Our push is clear: we want to ensure that the new Kept Animals Regulation, (proposal expected by 2026), will include all equids, regardless of their use. All horses, ponies, donkeys, and hybrids deserve robust and species-specific protections, and it is essential that they are covered by enforceable rules. 

Building momentum: a digital petition for change 

Public engagement is crucial to our success, and last year, we took an exciting step forward with a digital petition aimed at non-UK citizens—an initiative we had never attempted before. Focused initially on France, this petition allowed us to directly involve EU citizens in the conversation and demonstrate how important equine welfare is to people across the continent. We were thrilled by the response, and as we look ahead, we plan to expand this campaign into new languages and member states, amplifying our efforts for change. 

Looking ahead: a future free from cruelty 

As we enter the next phase of our campaign, we are more optimistic than ever. While the challenge remains, the momentum is growing, and the support from individuals, organisations, and policymakers is building. With continued advocacy and public engagement, we will work tirelessly to bring an end to the long-distance transport of horses across Europe for slaughter and improve the conditions in for all horses across the continent. 

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we can make the future a brighter, more humane place for horses everywhere. 

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World Horse Welfare is dedicated to promoting equine welfare and ending the long-distance transport of horses for slaughter. Through research, advocacy, and public engagement, we are working to ensure that every horse in Europe is given the protection it deserves.