The Future of Horse Welfare: A Response to the FEI Sports Forum 2024
The equestrian community recently witnessed the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) host its Sports Forum 2024, where the highly-anticipated report, "A Good Life for Horses – A vision for the future involvement of horses in sport" was presented by the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission. World Horse Welfare, holding a seat on the Commission, has responded with a thoughtful statement addressing the report's implications and the subsequent reaction from the FEI.
Equestrian Sports and Responsibility for Horse Welfare
In a "call to arms", World Horse Welfare emphasizes that the welfare of horses in sport is a collective endeavour. It requires cooperation from not just the FEI, but every tier of the equestrian sport community – from horse owners, trainers, to the competitors themselves. Only by taking a unified stand against the unethical treatment of horses can the community ensure a compassionate, respectful culture that values the lives of these splendid creatures.
World Horse Welfare on the FEI's Actions
World Horse Welfare both recognizes and applauds the FEI's commitment to adopting the Commission's vision promising all sport horses a good life, free from harm and exploitation. Still, the organization also harbours concerns about the practical execution of recommended strategies.
According to World Horse Welfare, there remain issues requiring a proactive FEI stance, particularly those connected to training, competition, and retirement. The organization urges the FEI to maintain the welfare of horses as a priority and engage with all stakeholders to create and effectively enact powerful welfare strategies.
FEI Sports Forum 2024 – A Platform for Positive Change?
The body responsible for the welfare of horses, World Horse Welfare, has voiced its hopeful expectation that the FEI uses the Sports Forum 2024 platform to truly engage with the community. It’s a chance to hear the concerns of those involved with horses, develop a thorough plan addressing horse welfare and, critically, to prove its commitment to the cause.
Creating a Vision for a Better Omorrow for Horses
As the community of equine sports continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly vital to keep the welfare of horses at the forefront of our motivations. The creation of a culture of respect, compassion, and dignity for horses, World Horse Welfare believes, depends on our collective efforts in this direction.
World Horse Welfare looks forward to its continued collaboration with the FEI and all stakeholders to promote the welfare of horses and secure their fair and respectful treatment. It is the combined responsibility of each member of the equestrian community to prioritize these magnificent, noble creatures and give them the dignified existence they deserve.