Cruelty Free International

Cruelty Free International is a globally recognized organization dedicated to ending animal testing for cosmetics and other products. The organization works to promote cruelty-free practices and policies worldwide, advocating for the adoption of alternative testing methods that do not involve animals.

History

Cruelty Free International was established in 1898 as the British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection (BUAV). The organization has a long history of campaigning against animal testing and has played a significant role in the development of legislation and regulations aimed at reducing and ultimately eliminating the use of animals in testing.

Mission and Goals

The primary mission of Cruelty Free International is to create a world where no animal is used for testing purposes. The organization focuses on several key areas:

• **Advocacy**: Working with governments, regulators, and companies to promote the adoption of cruelty-free policies.
• **Public Awareness**: Educating consumers about the importance of choosing cruelty-free products.
• **Research**: Supporting the development and validation of alternative testing methods that do not involve animals.

Campaigns

Cruelty Free International runs several high-profile campaigns aimed at ending animal testing:

• **Leaping Bunny Program**: A certification program that identifies products that are free from animal testing. Companies that meet the program's strict criteria can display the Leaping Bunny logo on their products.
• **Global Ban on Animal Testing**: Advocating for a worldwide ban on animal testing for cosmetics and other products.
• **Humane Cosmetics Act**: Supporting legislation that aims to prohibit the use of animals in cosmetics testing in various countries.

Achievements

Cruelty Free International has achieved significant milestones in its efforts to end animal testing:

• **European Union Ban**: Played a crucial role in the implementation of the EU ban on animal testing for cosmetics, which came into full effect in 2013.
• **Corporate Partnerships**: Collaborated with numerous companies to help them transition to cruelty-free practices.
• **Public Support**: Garnered widespread public support for cruelty-free initiatives, leading to increased consumer demand for cruelty-free products.

See Also

• Animal rights
• Animal testing
• Cosmetics testing on animals
• Leaping Bunny
• Humane Society International