The Italian government has established its first public fund to help farmers transition from cage-based animal husbandry to cage-free systems. Parliament approved the measure as part of the 2026 national budget, which took effect in January.
New Budget Allocates €1.5 Million For Farm Animals
According to Humane World for Animals, a non-profit organization that tackles the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create permanent change, the law allocates €500,000 this year.
Additionally, the law also allocate €1,000,000 in 2027 to subsidise structural and operational changes on farms. This initiative directly addresses severe welfare concerns associated with cage confinement.
“Over 40 million animals in Italy, including pregnant sows, rabbits, calves, and egg-laying hens, currently live in cages annually,” the human world for animals revealed.
Findings by Charity Journal reveal that industry practices often force animals to spend their lives in barren cages. This is so restrictive that they cannot turn around, leading to significant stress and health issues.
While the European Union (EU) banned traditional battery cages for hens, an estimated 40% still live in “enriched” cages. This, according to the EU, provides only marginally more space, comparable to a single sheet of A4 paper. And still prevent natural behaviours like dust-bathing and perching.
Move Addresses Welfare Of 40 Million Animals
The European Food Safety Authority has recommended a shift to cage-free systems to improve animal welfare. A recent Eurobarometer survey found 91% of Italian citizens oppose individual cages in farming.
A total of 1.4 million citizens across the EU have backed the “End the Cage Age” European Citizens’ Initiative. They are also urging the European Commission to table legislation for a full phase-out.
Similarly, advocacy groups, including the Humane World for Animals coalition, are now pressuring the Commission to honour its commitment to propose a ban.
The fund received cross-party parliamentary support with backing from the Italian Minister of Agriculture. Animal welfare advocates celebrated the decision as a critical political precedent, despite hopes for larger initial funding.
“This fund is a starting point that sends an unmistakable signal. Italian political unity on this issue creates a significant precedent and charts a course toward a more humane agricultural future,” said a representative from the “End the Cage Age” coalition.
In a related development, organizations are protecting endangered animals as wildlife worldwide faces serious threats. These organisations are rescuing species, restoring habitats, and championing policies that give vulnerable animals a fighting chance to survive.
Meanwhile, the Italian government has also emphasized the tremendous importance of global corporations in addressing the increasing humanitarian needs in Gaza, encouraging other nations to follow suit.
