“Tell stories people can connect with. Move away from technical jargon and instead create content that feels relevant and accessible” - Theresa Bonnici, Eurogroup for Animals

Theresa Bonnici is Press Officer for Eurogroup for Animals, the pan-European animal protection organisation working in the interest of animals towards a society in which they are valued and respected as sentient beings.

What does the change you are trying to achieve look like? Why is the EU important?

Eurogroup for Animals represents over 100 organisations across Europe, working to strengthen animal welfare legislation. By pushing for laws grounded in science, our aim is to ensure that all animals — farmed, companion, wild, or used in research and testing — are treated with full respect as sentient beings.

The organisation is also deeply involved in shaping food policies, pushing back against systems that lock Europe into industrial farming models. Collaboration with other civil society groups is central to this work.

The EU plays a crucial role because it has the power to propose and revise legislation. For example the current animal welfare rules for farm animals are two decades old, and the European Commission is now expected to revise them. At the same time, the European Parliament reflects citizens’ growing concern for animal welfare, while the Council — representing Member States — is equally important in determining the final direction of policy.

One of Eurogroup for Animals’ major campaigns is Fur Free Europe, a European Citizens’ Initiative calling for a ban on fur farming. After collecting 1.5 million signatures, we are now waiting for the Commission to respond and explain how it will move forward. Fur farming causes immense suffering, and the public mobilisation around the initiative shows just how strongly Europeans want change.

How are communication and policy advocacy connected?

Communication is inseparable from advocacy.

Communication helps mobilise the public through petitions and initiatives, encouraging citizens to contact their Members of the European Parliament and demand action.

It is also essential in influencing policymakers directly. Eurogroup for Animals’ experts provide evidence-based information grounded in science, while we as communicators translate technical details into accessible stories.

As communicators, we simplify messages by telling stories about animals, people, and the way we live.

Which challenges are you facing?

Advocating for animal welfare in Brussels comes with major challenges. Powerful business interests invest heavily in lobbying, giving them significant influence over policy decisions.

At the same time, increasing political pressure on NGOs is another serious concern. Some political groups are actively attacking civil society participation, making the role of NGOs more important than ever.

Keeping animal welfare issues visible in the media is crucial so that the public remains informed and engaged.

The EU is a democratic institution, and we need to be louder. The European Parliament represents citizens — and citizens care deeply about animals.

One tip you want to share with other public interest advocates?

Tell stories people can connect with. Move away from technical jargon and instead create content that feels relevant and accessible. Frame it as something that affects the public.

Working together is also very important. Form coalitions, exchange experiences, and come together. Challenges are shared, and we can find ways to navigate them collectively.

And finally, remain hopeful, even in a world that feels chaotic. Hope for change — and work for it.