Animal Welfare from a Cross-Cultural Perspective

Animal welfare encompasses the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of other-than-human animals. Humans have a responsibility to ensure that the welfare needs of domesticated and/or otherwise captive animals are met. Some argue that the welfare needs of wild-living animals should also be considered. However, beliefs about what the needs of a species or an individual animal entail and what constitutes good practice can vary greatly. An understanding of different cultural perspectives is especially pertinent for researchers and animal advocates concerned with the welfare of animals situated in touristic, foreign (relative to the researcher), or culturally diverse contexts. Cultural sensitivity is argued to be paramount to building relationships and addressing concerns related to animal welfare. Furthermore, culture is being increasingly recognised as existing in various forms across species. The articles in this collection shed light on diverse issues surrounding animal welfare, each providing a unique perspective on how cultural contexts, governance, and more-than-human relationships shape our understanding of animal welfare. Despite the diversity of these issues, there is a unifying call for more humane treatment of species and individuals, necessitating cross-cultural understanding, tailored policies, and innovative solutions.