The World Federation for Animals (WFA) is a federation of over 60 NGOs working towards the recognition of animal welfare as an essential component of the sustainable development agenda. The organization focuses on integrating animal welfare into international health, food, and environmental regimes, as well as trade and development finance rules.

A History of Collaboration

The WFA emerged from a growing recognition among leading animal advocacy organizations that animal protection needed to be elevated within global policymaking. Animals had often been excluded or confined to isolated policy silos. To achieve the necessary transformation, the sector required deeper collaboration, increased ambition, and enhanced skills. An overarching coalition was needed to unite these efforts.

In response to this need, leading animal organizations worldwide came together to form the WFA in 2020, elevating animal protection on the international policy map. Building upon the work initiated by World Animal Net, the Federation's core principles, policy directions, and structure were defined throughout 2019 and 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the urgency of global and concerted action for animals, accelerating the Federation's establishment.

The first formal meeting of the founding organizations took place in December 2020, resulting in the formation of the Full Board. Agreements on statutes and a draft budget laid the foundation for the Federation's future.

Today, the WFA is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization with Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council and an Accredited Observer to the UN Environment Programme. As a united, vibrant, and cohesive movement of compassionate individuals and organizations, the WFA recognizes the strength and effectiveness of collaboration in protecting animals on a global scale.