It concludes that scientific evidence and experience in various EU countries clearly shows that “enrichment/enlargement of cage systems is not able to address the major welfare issues for mink, foxes and raccoon dogs farmed for fur and there are insurmountable obstacles to the development of more extensive alternative systems.” This makes it impossible for the needs of mink, foxes and raccoon dogs to be met by the fur industry. A ban is the only viable solution to the serious welfare problems of animals farmed for fur.

By the end of 2023, the European Commission is set to publish a proposal for a revised animal welfare legislation. A leak of the draft Impact Assessment report on the revision of animal welfare legislation suggested ‘improved’ animal welfare requirements as an option for fur farmed animals, ‘while ensuring that it remains economically viable to farm fur animals under those conditions’. However, the evidence once again shows that this is not a viable solution.

1.5 million signatures have been submitted to the Commission calling for a Fur Free Europe, and a majority of Member States called on the EC to introduce a ban on fur farming.