05. January 2026

Live Animal Transport by Sea: Media Pick Up on Open Letter to the IMO

The fleet of around 110 livestock vessels is, on average, significantly older and much more dangerous than other commercial vessels. This regularly puts animals at risk.

Several media outlets are reporting on our open letter to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Together with 35 other animal welfare organizations from around the world, we are calling for binding international rules for animal transport ships. This is in response to repeated serious accidents at sea and the alarming situation of an aging and barely regulated fleet.

In the letter, we make it clear that the transport of live animals by sea poses a significant risk to animals, crews, the environment, and public health. Media reports show that political and public pressure is growing—and with it the chance that the IMO will finally take action and create clear, enforceable standards for this largely unregulated sector.

OE24: Tiertransporte auf See: Ein System am Limit

Lloyd's List: Animal groups urge IMO to crack down on substandard livestock carrier fleet

Tradewind News: Campaigners call on IMO to tighten rules on livestock carriers

Marine Link: IMO Challenged Over Livestock Carrier Regulations

Times of Israel: Israeli NGO among 36 organizations calling for global reform ov live animal shipping

Safety 4 Sea: Organizations ask IMO for improved framework on livestock carriers

Infomarine: IMO Challenged Over Livestock Carrier Regulations

Robban Assafina: Animal Groups Call for Stricter IMO Livestock Carrier Rules