Press Release: Publication of “No Animal Left Behind” article highlights campaign success and future legislative needs.
Wellington, New Zealand – July 12, 2024.
The recent publication of the article “No Animal Left Behind: A Thematic Analysis of Public Submissions on the New Zealand Emergency Management Bill” in the journal Pets marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance animal welfare during emergencies. The study, conducted by Dr Steve Glassey of the Public Safety Institute, provides a comprehensive analysis of public submissions on the Emergency Management Bill, underscoring the critical need for legislative reforms to better protect animals.
Campaign Success: Mobilising Public Engagement
The “No Animal Left Behind” campaign, spearheaded by Animal Evac New Zealand, played a pivotal role in mobilising public engagement on this issue. The campaign successfully generated 586,996 impressions across various digital platforms and was directly responsible for at least 48% of the public submissions on the Bill. This unprecedented level of public participation highlights the campaign’s effectiveness in raising awareness and advocating for the inclusion of animals in emergency management legislation.
Importance of Including Animals in Future Laws
The thematic analysis revealed that 61% of the submissions emphasised the importance of including animals in the new emergency management legislation. Key concerns raised by the public included the need for clear statutory powers and requirements, better coordination and resourcing, and recognition of the human-animal bond. These findings underscore the growing recognition of animals as sentient beings deserving of care and protection during emergencies.
Need for Evidence-Based Policy
The study also highlights the necessity of evidence-based policy-making to ensure effective and comprehensive emergency management reforms. By analysing public submissions, the research provides valuable insights into the priorities and concerns of various stakeholders. This mirrors calls by Sir Peter Gluckman, former Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister who criticised officials in the past for using instinct, rather than evidence in policy formation. This approach not only enhances transparency but also ensures that the legislative process is informed by empirical data and public opinion.
Farmers’ Support for Animal Welfare
Interestingly, the analysis revealed that even farmers, who are often perceived as prioritising economic interests, expressed strong support for better animal protection measures. This broad-based support across different sectors of society indicates a shared understanding of the importance of animal welfare and the need for robust legal frameworks to safeguard it during disasters.
Conclusion
The publication of this article is a testament to the success of the “No Animal Left Behind” campaign and a call to action for policymakers. It is imperative that future emergency management laws in New Zealand explicitly include provisions for animal welfare, backed by evidence-based policy-making. By doing so, New Zealand can set a global standard for compassionate and effective disaster management, ensuring that no animal is left behind.
For more information on the “No Animal Left Behind” campaign visit the Animal Evac New Zealand website.
The article can also be viewed and downloaded here.
Contact
Dr Steve Glassey | Public Safety Institute
& Patron | Animal Evac New Zealand
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