The Equine Realm Embraces the Era of Welfare Advocacy: The "Charter for the Horse"
A conspicuous shift is sweeping across the equine world with prioritized focus on the welfare and wellbeing of horses and other equids. Spearheading this movement is the "Charter for the Horse" – a groundbreaking initiative launched by British Equestrian (BEF) and its 19 member bodies. This article probes into the essence, significance, and projected implications of the Charter for the Horse.
Origins and Growth of the Charter for the Horse
British Equestrian, in collaboration with its member entities, conceived the Charter for the Horse in response to escalating concerns surrounding equine welfare. Recognizing the need for a wholesome framework guiding the industry, the Charter emerged as a collaborative endeavor. This unified approach targets to safeguard equines and equids with its all-encompassing manifesto.
Striding On Six Pillars: The Charter's Principles
Underpinning the Charter are six fundamental principles: empathy, care, respect, consideration, ethics, and learning. These tenets lay the groundwork for guaranteeing the wellbeing of horses and other equids, fostering a nurturing environment resonating with understanding and compassion.
Influences from the International Stage: The FEI Equestrian Charter
Joining the fight for equine welfare is the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) with its own Equine Ethics and Welfare Commission (EEWC). The FEI Equestrian Charter, bearing a striking resemblance with the British Charter, aspires to propagate ethical and responsible equestrian practices worldwide.
Backing of the British Equestrian Elite: Carl Hester's Support
Respected British equestrian and ardent advocate of equine wellbeing, Carl Hester lends his endorsement to the Charter for the Horse. Hester's patronage illuminates the Charter's importance, underscoring the need for a concerted effort to uplift equine welfare.
Framework and Influences: 'Three Fs' and the Five Domains Model
The internationally acknowledged 'three Fs' of freedom, friends, and forage, alongside the five domains model, are integral to comprehending the principles underpinning the Charter. These tenets steer the focus towards providing horses and other equids with the indispensable elements for their physical and emotional blossoming.
Progressive Steps: Revisions to the British Equestrian Rule Book and Ethics Policy
The British Equestrian Board, in partnership with the Equine Wellbeing and Ethics Advisory Group (EWEAG), are undertaking extensive revisions to the British Equestrian rule book and Equine Ethics and Welfare Policy. These proposed amendments seek alignment with the Charter's principles and promote exemplary practices in equine care.
Driving Change at the Helm: Professor Madeleine Campbell
Professor Madeleine Campbell, Chair of the EWEAG, has orchestrated and driven the development and implementation of the Charter. Her expertise and leadership have been pivotal in amplifying the Charter's success and its footprint within the equestrian community.
Aligning With Vision: British Equestrian Chief Executive Jim Eyre
The endorsement and active involvement of British Equestrian Chief Executive Jim Eyre demonstrate the organization's pledge to the Charter's implementation. His dedication underscores the organization's commitment to foster equine welfare and wellbeing.
The Charter for the Horse: A Milestone for Equine Welfare
The Charter for the Horse signifies a substantial leap in the equestrian industry's drive to prioritize equine welfare and wellbeing. The Charter strides with a unified approach to safeguarding horses and other equids, nurturing a culture of empathy, understanding, and accountability within the equine realm.
References:
