Switzerland: Transparency in animal research – STAAR Annual Report 2024 published

The 2024 Annual Report of the Swiss Transparency Agreement on Animal Research (STAAR) shows significant progress in the disclosure of animal research practices. The agreement, which was launched in 2022, commits participating institutions to clear, public communication about their animal research, to engaging in dialogue with society and to regular reporting on transparency measures.  

All 26 signatory organisations implemented corresponding measures in 2024. Twelve of the 14 institutions that conduct animal experiments (PARs) published detailed figures on the number and type of animals used in the experiments. Five of them also disclosed data on the severity of the procedures. Three organisations that support animal experiments (SARs) provided information on animal use in funded projects, which marks an increase over previous years. A growing number of institutions also went beyond the standards and reported on sensitive issues such as euthanasia procedures, autopsy rooms and animals not used in experiments. 

Furthermore, many institutions provided more information about the 3Rs principle, opened their research facilities to external visitors and took part in public events such as science fairs and open days at universities.  

Overall, the report shows that STAAR members are increasingly implementing their commitments in practice and that transparency in Swiss animal research continues to improve.