News from the European Animal Research Association

Across Europe, Transparency Agreements on animal research (TAs) have become essential tools for strengthening public trust in science. These TAs are strategic commitments by research institutions and other organisations involved in animal research to enhance openness and foster public trust in the responsible use of animals in science.

Transparency Agreements encourage institutions to explain why and how animals are used in research, without imposing rigid or one-size-fits-all requirements. They are about promoting a culture of openness rather than compliance with a checklist. Transparency Agreements serve as national platforms bringing together employees involved in both research and communications across organisations for dialogue, sharing best practices, experiences and potential concerns.

Openness is no longer optional, but a core responsibility of research institutes working with animals. With political pressure on animal research rising on both the European and North American continents, silence by the research community creates a vacuum that can easily be filled by partial or misleading information. Clear, proactive communication also strengthens confidence among researchers, animal care staff, and communication teams.

In countries where such agreements are already in place, they have proven to be valuable tools for lowering barriers, increasing confidence and promoting a shared responsibility. The rapid growth of Transparency Agreements across many European countries demonstrates a clear shift in how the research community responds to public scrutiny. Universities, public research institutes, private companies, funders, and other stakeholders have chosen collective openness as a strategic response.

Kirk Leech
Executive Director
European Animal Research Association