Dr. E. (Els) Maeckelberghe

“The relationship between humans and animals has been shifting increasingly in recent years, resulting in greater consideration of how animals experience the world. This makes it even more important to apply new insights and to be transparent when making decisions about research involving animals. Ultimately, it concerns animal welfare, which must be carefully balanced with the development of new scientific knowledge.

It is crucial to ensure there is proper ethical evaluation, including the interrelationship between separate disciplines, so that the discussion of current issues incorporates different points of view. We have to stay up to date on the debate in society.

The CCD is vitally important, because its role is to bring together knowledge – both scientific and social – so balanced decisions can be made within the framework of laws and regulations.”