In Wallonia, thousands of animals disappear, are mistreated or seized every year. This reality has direct consequences: shelters are overflowing, associations are sounding the alarm, and public outrage continues to grow. Faced with these tragedies, the status quo is no longer acceptable. Animal welfare must finally become a priority, matching the scale of the challenges.
The Mouvement Réformateur is tackling this issue head-on. From September, an ambitious reform of the Animal Welfare Code will be introduced, built around concrete and long-awaited measures.
Eight commitments to change the game
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A trust certificate will replace the simple ownership permit. Obtaining the right to own an animal will no longer be a mere formality, but the recognition of genuine responsibility.
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Tougher penalties will target cases of abuse or neglect. Leniency will no longer have a place: leaving an animal in a car during a heatwave will no longer be excused lightly.
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An end to home slaughter for sheep, goats and pigs. This practice, which causes suffering and is difficult to control, will be strictly banned.
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The abolition of animal sales at municipal markets, seen as too risky and often synonymous with trafficking or neglect.
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A ban on gassing and grinding male chicks, two practices that spark legitimate outrage in society.
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The deployment of mobile on-farm slaughter units, to reduce stress and pain for animals during this crucial stage.
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Increased support for shelters and municipalities, frontline actors too often overwhelmed by a lack of resources.
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Promotion of alternatives to animal testing, to encourage ethical research that respects living beings.
The message is clear: Wallonia wants to take a decisive step for animal welfare. Protecting animals is a mark of humanity, but also a sign of collective progress. Turning a blind eye means, in reality, becoming complicit in injustices that should no longer exist.
Animal welfare is not a gimmick, nor a mere societal debate. It is a priority, and it is time to give it the place it deserves.