Horizon Europe-funded projects using animals in non-EU countries
6.11.2024
Question for written answer E-002426/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE)
An increasing number of non-EU countries are agreeing associate membership of Horizon Europe. Wherever EU funding is directed to work programmes which involve ethical issues, these issues must be identified and managed.
Animal welfare is a value of the Union. Animals have an intrinsic value which must be respected and they must be treated as sentient creatures[1]. Directive 2010/63/EU sets out requirements that must be followed by Member States to protect animals used in science, including ensuring the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement) are applied to the greatest extent possible, and that minimum standards (e.g. of housing, humane killing, etc.) are met[2]. Countries around the world can have different regulation systems and standards for protecting animals used in science.
Can the Commission clarify:
- 1.Whether non-EU based applicants/beneficiaries receiving funding under Horizon Europe are required to meet the same standards for protecting animals used for scientific purposes (e.g. those defined under Directive 2010/63/EU) as those who are EU-based?
- 2.What steps are taken during the grant application review process to ensure only proposals which meet the ethical and animal welfare standards required within the EU are approved?
Submitted: 6.11.2024