On 21st September, the European Animal Research Association (EARA) held a meeting in Leuven with the aim to discuss improving Belgian public and political decision makers’ understanding and acceptance of animal research for bio-medical purposes.
The meeting revolved around discussion on the current communication situation and challenges in Belgium, the landscape in animal research and next steps to improve understanding & acceptance of animal research in Belgium.
In this respect, the meeting as well discussed the Stop Vivisection Citizens’ Initiative which intends to repeal European Directive 2010/63/EU and ban research involving animals revealed growing support for those opposed to animal research. The Initiative gained 1.2 million signatures among EU citizens and is currently being further processed. The European Brain Council is in full support of the Initiative and is therefore thoroughly involved in the process.