Animal Litigation Network launched to strengthen enforcement of animal protection laws across Europe

Amsterdam, 30 May 2026  – A coalition of leading animal law and animal protection organisations from across Europe today announced the launch of the Animal Litigation Network (ALN), a new collaborative initiative dedicated to improving the enforcement and implementation of animal welfare legislation throughout European countries.

The Animal Litigation Network brings together legal experts, litigators, and animal advocacy organisations to jointly address the persistent gap between existing animal protection laws and their practical enforcement. While Europe has some of the world’s most comprehensive animal welfare legislation, enforcement remains inconsistent and often inadequate, particularly for farmed animals.

By coordinating legal strategies, sharing expertise, and supporting strategic litigation efforts across borders, the Network aims to strengthen accountability of public authorities and industry actors, ensure compliance with national and European legislation, and promote meaningful improvements in the lives of millions of animals.

“Too often, animal welfare laws exist on paper but fail in practice,” said Ellen Greve, founder and chair of the Animal Litigation Network. “Through cooperation and strategic legal action, the Animal Litigation Network seeks to ensure that governments and competent authorities fulfil their legal obligations and that animal protection standards are genuinely upheld.”

Founding members of the Network believe that coordinated legal action can become a powerful driver for systemic change and improved protection for animals across Europe.

“Effective enforcement is essential if animal welfare laws are to have real meaning,” said Alessandro Ricciuti, CEO of Animal Law Italia and chair of the Advisory Committee. “By joining forces across Europe, we can create stronger legal pressure, close enforcement gaps, and ultimately contribute to a better life for farmed animals.”

The launch of the Animal Litigation Network reflects the growing recognition that litigation and legal accountability are increasingly important tools in advancing animal protection and ensuring that existing laws deliver tangible outcomes.

For more information, please contact:

Ellen Greve
Animal Litigation Network
ellen@animallitigationnetwork.org
+ 31 (0) 6 53 84 94 77
www. animallitigationnetwork.org