Ethical Seafood Research 96d ago

Animal welfare is gaining ground in law and policy - but aquatic animals remain largely overlooked. In this presentation from the 2nd edition of the WMILAR @SparksMoot (University of Birmingham, March 2026), ESR Director, Wasseem Emam, explores how science and policy must come together to address one of the largest unaddressed welfare challenges globally: aquatic animal welfare. Drawing on applied research across Egypt and sub-Saharan Africa, he covers: → Why aquatic animals are central to global animal welfare - yet remain underrepresented in legal frameworks. → The growing scientific evidence for fish sentience and welfare needs. → Key gaps in current policy across the EU, Global South and emerging legal systems. → How applied science can inform practical, enforceable welfare standards. → The role of policy in translating evidence into real-world impact. From welfare indicators to regulatory design, the presentation makes the case for a more integrated approach - where science informs law, and law enables meaningful welfare improvements in aquaculture systems. Watch to explore how policy, science and practice can align to improve fish welfare at scale. #AquaticAnimalWelfare #AnimalWelfareLaw #Aquaculture #WMILAR