Switzerland to Vote on Ban: 'Yes to a Future Without Animal Experiments'
Switzerland is set to vote on a controversial initiative, 'Yes to a Future Without Animal Experiments', which aims to phase out animal testing. Backed by over 127,000 signatures and supported by a broad coalition of animal welfare groups, the initiative seeks to end the use of animals in research, testing, and breeding. The initiative, submitted by a wide alliance including the Swiss Animal Protection (STS), argues that animal experiments are ineffective and ethically unacceptable. It calls for a gradual abolition of all animal experiments and a ban on importing and selling products developed through such tests. The Swiss government opposes the initiative, warning of potential negative impacts on research, education, and health. A ban on severe constraint experiments and those in basic research would be immediate, with all others phased out within seven years. This initiative is not the first of its kind; since 1985, Swiss voters have rejected four similar proposals. In 2024, 522,636 animals were used in experiments, with 36% experiencing no stress and 5% facing severe stress. Animal experiments in Switzerland are already subject to strict legal requirements and can only be authorized if there is no suitable alternative. The initiative 'Yes to a Future Without Animal Experiments' is set to go to a national vote in Switzerland. Backed by prominent animal welfare organizations, it seeks a comprehensive ban on animal testing. The Swiss government opposes the initiative, citing potential negative impacts on research and health. Voters will decide the future of animal testing in Switzerland.
Read also:
- Orbital satellites, previously purchased, for which Trump desires a destructive, fiery atmospheric descent
- World Braces for Potential COVID-19 Resurgence as Lockdowns Ease
- Magnet Biomedicine, Eli Lilly Ink $1.25B Deal for Cancer Drug Discovery
- Medicinal and Recreational Applications of Ten Various Drugs
