EU: Commission Partially Registers Citizens’ Initiative on Stray and Shelter Animal Welfare

The European Commission formally registered yesterday a new European Citizens’ Initiative entitled „EU initiative to protect stray dogs, stray cats and animals in shelters in EU/non-EU countries“. The initiative’s primary objectives focus on the protection of stray cats and dogs as well as animals in animal shelters operating within the EU. Furthermore, the proposal seeks to further restrict the use of cats and dogs in scientific research and advocates for a strategic linkage between EU financial assistance and the adherence to animal welfare protocols concerning dogs and cats in third countries. By accepting this registration on 9 February 2026, the Commission acknowledges that the initiative’s objectives fall within the legal framework of the Union. However, the Commission is registering the initiative only in part, as it can do so solely in areas where it has the competence to propose new legislation. This applies to animal shelters, the use of animals for scientific purposes, trade and cooperation with third countries, and Union funding. The substance of the proposals has not been analysed at this stage.