Brussels, 17 December 2024 – The European Parliament has officially established the Intergroup on Sustainable Livestock with the support of numerous MEPs from diverse countries and the major political groups. The agreement to support the establishment of this intergroup demonstrates a clear willingness to invest time in exploring ways to make livestock farming systems more environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable, while guaranteeing food safety, animal welfare, and vibrant rural communities.

This Intergroup will play a central role in bridging the gap between policymakers and the realities faced by farmers and professionals on the ground. It will provide a platform to discuss practical solutions for promoting sustainability in livestock farming across Europe and help ensure that rural communities become more vocal during policy debates in Brussels.

MEP Benoit Cassart, a strong advocate for the Intergroup’s establishment, said: “The reality on the ground that I see every day does not correspond to what is often heard in public institutions, which are often very urban-centric, such as the European Parliament. This Intergroup can help to bridge the gap between reality on the ground and our political decision-makers. Livestock farming is a considerable asset for Europe’s food-autonomy and much more, so revitalising this essential sector through well-informed policies is of urgent importance.” 

MEP Alexander Bernhuber, a key driver for the creation of the Intergroup, said: “This Intergroup has been created to address the need for a holistic approach to sustainable livestock farming, integrating environmental, economic, and animal welfare aspects. The sector faces significant challenges, including climate change and consumer demand for sustainably produced food. This Intergroup can help foster policies that balance these needs while supporting farmers.”

MEP Maria Grapini, a passionate supporter for establishing the Intergroup, said: “With this Intergroup we aim to facilitate ongoing dialogue between the European Parliament, industry, animal welfare organisations, and competent authorities to ensure balanced and effective regulation supporting sector competitiveness and environmental protection for a more sustainable, efficient, and responsible livestock sector.”

Partner associations of European Livestock Voice very much welcome the establishment of this group and are willing to play an active role in the Intergroup’s programme over the coming years. With the support of academia and scientists, as well as civil society experts in the field, we look forward to exchanging with decision-makers on the various complexities of animal-based farming and the rapid evolution of the science of animal production. This Intergroup is a prime place to keep MEPs informed on the latest data and research in the field.

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Note for Editors

About European Livestock voice

European Livestock Voice is a multi-stakeholder group of like-minded partners in the livestock food chain, that have decided to unite for the first time to balance the debate around a sector playing such an essential role in Europe’s rich heritage and future. The associations involved, which represent sectors ranging from animal health to feed, to breeding and animal farming and farmers, aim to inform the public about the societal value of livestock production and its contribution to global challenges, offering an alternative narrative to current debates.

AnimalhealthEurope – European manufacturers of animal health products
AVEC – European Poultry Meat Sector
Clitravi – European Meat Processing Industry
Copa and Cogeca – European Farmers and European Agri-cooperatives
COTANCE – European Leather Industry
EDA – European Dairy Association
EFFAB – European Forum of Farm Animal Breeders
ERA – European Rabbit Association
Euro Foie Gras – European Foie Gras industry
FEAP – European Aquaculture industry
FEFAC – European Feed Manufacturers
FEFANA – European Specialty Feed Ingredients Industry
FUR EUROPE – European Fur Industry
UECBV – European Livestock and Meat Trades

For further information, please contact: info@europeanlivestockvoice.eu