S&D MEP César Luena has called on the European Commission to explain how it plans to enforce EU animal welfare rules in intensive pig holdings, following press reports of serious shortcomings such as untreated injuries, cannibalism, and poor hygiene. He also demanded an update on the long-awaited legislative response to the 'End the Cage Age' European Citizens' Initiative, which gathered over 1.4 million signatures.
The written question, submitted on 14 April 2026 under Rule 144, targets three specific areas: uniform implementation of Directives 98/58/EC and 2008/120/EC, the state of play of the cage ban reform, and potential stricter verification requirements for animal welfare labels to prevent greenwashing.
Concrete asks and policy direction
Luena's question does not set numerical targets or deadlines but requests concrete measures and a timeline. He links the alleged non-compliance to broader concerns about biosecurity, public health, and the credibility of sustainability seals. By invoking Article 13 TFEU (which recognises animals as sentient beings) and green labelling rules, he frames the issue as both an enforcement failure and a consumer protection problem.
Expected follow-up
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it plans to step up inspections, propose new legislation on cage bans, or tighten rules on animal welfare claims. The response will be closely watched by animal welfare NGOs, the farming industry, and food retailers, as it may indicate the pace and ambition of EU animal welfare reform under the current mandate.