In the 10-point Animal Welfare Charter, Interpharma member companies undertake to:
apply and actively promote the 3Rs (reduction, refinement and replacement of animal studies), especially with regard to the research, development and implementation of methods and techniques which allow further replacement of animal studies, a reduction in the number of animals used or alleviation of the pain and stress suffered by laboratory animals before, during and after the experiment.
ensure high-quality and state-of-the-art housing and care conditions for our laboratory animals and strive to continuously improve these conditions.
develop, foster and support education and training for all our employees and associates who work with animals.
contractually oblige external partners to comply with our high standards of animal welfare when they conduct animal studies for us or supply us with animals.
apply rigorous internal auditing systems to ensure compliance with the animal welfare standards agreed upon.
commit to joint efforts to audit our external partners on animal welfare standards and compliance at a global level.
promote, in addition to regular official inspections, the development of external, independent assessment programmes for our animal welfare standards and facilities worldwide.
promote the validation and regulatory acceptance of methods suitable for replacing, reducing or refining animal studies.
contribute to a continuous, open and constructive dialogue on animal research and welfare with the public at large as well as with authorities, policymakers and other interested stakeholders.
report annually on the progress made with regard to this charter.