Commissioner for Animal Welfare Alison Bezzina on Monday called upon all MEP candidates from Malta to pledge their support for the "Vote for Animals" initiative. Noting a concerning lack of endorsements thus far, Commissioner Bezzina emphasised the critical importance of this pledge in advancing animal welfare across Europe.

The "Vote for Animals" Pledge, comprising 10 fundamental initiatives, aims to address various aspects of animal welfare, including ending cruel trades and safeguarding wildlife throughout the continent. By signing this pledge, MEP candidates commit themselves to championing these essential measures if elected, Bezzina said.

Commissioner Bezzina stressed the significance of this commitment, highlighting that it provides voters with a clear means of holding candidates accountable for their stance on animal welfare. She urged citizens, regardless of political affiliation, to demand that their chosen candidates sign the pledge, emphasizing that every vote counts in advocating for the well-being of animals.

To date, only 13 out of all the MEP candidates have signed the pledge. These are David Agius (Partit Nazzjonalista), Clint Azzopardi Flores (Partit Laburista), Conrad Borg-Manche (Independent), Rachelle Deguara (The Green Party), James Ryder Muscat (Independent), Ralph Cassar (The Green Party), Mina Tolu (The Green Party), Stephen Florian (Independent), Antonia Gauci (Partit ABBA), Arnold Cassola (Independent), Louise Anne Pulis (Partit Nazzjonalista), Matthias Iannis Portelli (Volt), and Sandra Gauci (The Green Party).

The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola explained that while she does not sign pledges that do not reflect the official position of the Parliament, this is a subject very close to her heart and said the following: "We need animal welfare to truly become a European priority. The need for more robust animal welfare legislation, is something that as President I have pushed for and will continue to advocate towards. In this respect a European Commissioner that is responsible for animal welfare is crucial. I am proud that under my leadership the European Parliament has led the way for increased animal welfare on an EU level and will continue to do so over the next legislature."

As the election approaches, Commissioner Bezzina encouraged voters to remain vigilant and to actively engage with candidates on the issue of animal welfare. Through collective action and informed decision-making, citizens can ensure that their voices are heard, and that the welfare of animals remains a priority within the European Union.

To see which MEP candidates have signed the pledge visit : https://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/vote-animals