Survey on Equine Ethics

Survey on Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Elicits Significant Global Response | fei.org

Over 4,500 equestrian stakeholders have participated in a survey designed to take the pulse of the community on topics relating to horse welfare and wellbeing, as well as specific concerns regarding the use of horses in sport.

Early survey results were discussed during the first in-person meeting of the newly formed Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission at the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) Headquarters in Lausanne (SUI) on August 3-4.

“We believe that this is the first time an international survey has been carried out to understand the perception of welfare standards in relation to the use of horses in sport,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.

“We cannot assume there is general acceptance of horse use in sport, and it’s important that we – the global governing body - proactively seek input from the community to gauge and to address any concerns they may have. Equestrian sport depends on the wellbeing of its horses, and the FEI has a duty to ensure high standards of welfare for the horses competing in each of our disciplines, and also to consider the impact that our sporting activities have on the environment.”

The Commission has initiated two surveys to help with their work. The equestrian stakeholder survey, available in English, French and Spanish, and will draw on the views of FEI Athletes, Officials, Owners, Organizing Committees, Grooms, National Federations and related associations (MOUs), as well as the wider equestrian sector stakeholders. There will also be a public opinion survey that will be translated into several languages and conducted in 14 key global markets, using a specialist market research and data company.

The results of both surveys will be analyzed, and the data considered alongside information from focus groups, the latest research in the area of equine wellbeing, and input from related industry bodies. These insights will help inform a ‘framework’ to guide the development of FEI regulations, policies and practices in the future, including but not limited to education initiatives, standard setting, engagement and enforcement.

The Commission will work together over an initial period of 18-months, with an interim report to be presented at the FEI General Assembly in November 2022 in Cape Town (RSA), followed by a second report at the FEI Sports Forum in April 2023 and a final report/ framework to be submitted for approval at the FEI General Assembly 2023 in Mexico.

More information on the work and composition of the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission can be found here: inside.fei.org/fei/ about-fei/structure/ad-hoc-commissions