EU Parliament calls for a diplomatic initiative for a global ban on animal testing for cosmetics

The European Parliament called on the EU to launch a high-level diplomatic campaign to impose a worldwide ban on animal testing in the cosmetic industry

In a resolution of 3 May 2018 the members of the European Parliament calls for a diplomatic initiative for a global ban on testing cosmetics on animals before 2023.

The Parliament resolution was adopted by 620 votes in favour, 14 against and 18 abstentions. The resolution is non binding however (it does not legally oblige the EU to take action).

Around 80% of countries worldwide still allow animal testing and the marketing of cosmetics tested on animals.

Within the EU itself, the sale of all animal-tested cosmetics has been banned since 2013. However, animal testing is still allowed in Europe for healthcare products and pharmaceuticals, as well as some chemicals and food.

According to the Special Eurobarometer survey No 442 of March 2016, 89% of EU citizens agree that the EU should do more to promote a greater awareness of the importance of animal welfare internationally, and 90% of EU citizens agree that it is important to establish high animal welfare standards that are recognised across the world.

The European Parliament believes that the EU’s landmark ban on animal testing for cosmetics sent a strong signal to the world about the value it attaches to animal protection, and has successfully shown that the phasing-out of animal testing for cosmetics is possible.

To work towards a global ban on animal testing and on the trade on cosmetic ingredients tested on animals, members of the European Parliament call on EU leaders, institutions and member states to use their diplomatic networks to build a coalition and to launch an international convention within the UN framework, organising side events at the next UN General Assembly.

As NGO affiliated with the UN Department of Public Information and the UN Economic and Social Council, OIPA will work to deliver a global end to cosmetics animal testing and eliminate animal suffering around the world, promoting this resolution within the UN framework.