EU appoints new animal welfare chief amid campaigner concerns

Campaigners expressed initial optimism over the appointment of a new commissioner for animal welfare in the EU, but concerns arose when Hungarian Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi was selected for the role. Várhelyi, who previously managed the Neighborhood and Enlargement portfolio, has faced criticism for his leadership style and handling of candidate countries' democratic issues. His appointment is seen by some as a political maneuver against Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has been obstructive regarding Ukraine. Outgoing Commissioner Stella Kyriakides had overseen animal welfare for five years, during which the EU was expected to reform its animal welfare rules in line with the Farm to Fork Strategy. However, the Commission has only introduced limited proposals, raising doubts about the commitment to animal welfare. The recent Strategic Dialogue on EU agriculture called for significant reforms, including a ban on cage use by 2026, but Várhelyi's mission letter lacks clarity on animal welfare priorities. Animal welfare advocates are cautiously optimistic about the establishment of a dedicated portfolio but are skeptical about Várhelyi's qualifications for the role. Campaigners have voiced concerns regarding his competence and commitment to animal welfare, emphasizing that the position should not be treated as an afterthought. The upcoming hearings in the European Parliament will be crucial in determining Várhelyi's suitability for the role. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Várhelyi's appointment, the creation of an animal welfare commissioner position is viewed as a significant step forward. Advocates believe that if the new commissioner demonstrates goodwill, there is potential for meaningful progress in animal welfare policies within the EU.