Humane World for Animals Europe, formerly known as Humane Society International/Europe (HSI/Europe), is a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to animal protection and welfare within the European Union and globally. Established as a legal entity in Belgium in October 2014, HSI/Europe operates as the European branch of the international animal advocacy network, Humane Society International, itself part of The Humane Society of the United States, one of the world’s largest animal protection organizations. In February 2025, the organization underwent a global rebranding to Humane World for Animals to better reflect its broad mission across species and geographies.
The organization focuses on addressing deeply entrenched forms of animal cruelty and suffering, including wildlife trade, cruel farming practices, use of animals in scientific research, and the protection of marine mammals. It advocates for stronger EU policies on animal welfare, international trade, environmental crime, and sustainable food systems. HSI/Europe is instrumental in shaping EU legislative frameworks related to animal welfare standards, trade agreements, climate action intersecting with animal protection, and alternatives to animal testing.
HSI/Europe engages in high-level policy advocacy and collaborative networks to influence decision-makers in EU institutions. It is registered in the EU Transparency register (ID 05097472836-90) since December 2009. The organization works not only at the European level but also influences national and global policy arenas. HSI/Europe maintains extensive networks with affiliated NGOs, international platforms, and scientific advisory groups to advance animal protection agendas.
With a lean dedicated EU lobbying team—including two full-time equivalent (FTE) paid lobbyists as of October 2024—and additional involvement from country directors across EU member states, Humane World for Animals is a focused yet influential voice. Their activities involve policy monitoring, stakeholder engagement, submission of position papers, and direct meetings with EU policymakers. They emphasize transparency and compliance with EU lobbying standards.
Financially, Humane World for Animals Europe operates primarily through donations, grants from philanthropic foundations, and funding from its international affiliates. In 2023, the organization’s total budget exceeded €5.25 million, with significant funding from The Humane Society of the United States and Open Philanthropy foundation supporting projects such as farm animal welfare.
The organization’s mission aligns with broader sustainability and public health objectives, intersecting often with EU policies on climate, consumer protection, and research innovation. Through participation in EU advisory bodies and coalitions like the Fur Free Alliance and the European Alliance for Plant-Based Foods, Humane World for Animals exerts influence beyond traditional lobbying to shape public discourse and policy formulation for humane and ethical treatment of animals worldwide.
