Overview

World Animal Protection is an international non-governmental organisation focused on improving animal welfare and preventing animal cruelty worldwide. The organisation traces its origins to the World Federation for the Protection of Animals, established in 1950, and the International Society for the Protection of Animals, founded in 1959. These organisations merged in 1981 to form the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), before adopting the name World Animal Protection in 2014.

Headquartered in London, the organisation operates through regional hubs and country offices across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and North America. Its mission is centred on creating a world where animals live free from cruelty and exploitation.

Mission and focus areas

World Animal Protection campaigns on issues affecting both wild and farmed animals. Its core focus areas include ending the commercial exploitation of wildlife, improving farm animal welfare, promoting humane disaster response, and encouraging governments and industries to adopt stronger animal protection standards.

The organisation also links animal welfare with broader sustainability challenges, including biodiversity loss, food systems, climate change and public health. Through advocacy and policy engagement, it works with governments, international institutions and businesses to encourage more sustainable and ethical practices within agriculture, tourism and wildlife trade systems.

Structure and governance

World Animal Protection operates as a global charity with international and regional offices supporting local campaigns and partnerships. The organisation is governed through a leadership structure that includes executive management, trustees and regional teams responsible for programme delivery and policy development.

It also collaborates with non-government organisations, academic institutions, governments and multilateral organisations. The organisation gained consultative status with the United Nations during the 1980s, strengthening its role in international animal welfare policy discussions.

Programs and offerings

World Animal Protection delivers global campaigns, research reports, public education initiatives and policy advocacy programs. Its work includes disaster response for animals, wildlife protection campaigns, sustainable food system advocacy, and animal welfare education for veterinary and professional sectors.

The organisation also produces reports and guidance aimed at businesses, policymakers and consumers, particularly on factory farming, wildlife tourism and animal welfare standards. These resources support practitioners and decision-makers seeking to incorporate animal welfare considerations into sustainability and ESG-related strategies.

What does World Animal Protection do?

We’re World Animal Protection. We’re on a mission to end animal cruelty and suffering. Forever.

Evidence shows that animals are sentient, individual beings who feel pain, fear, and joy. Yet, every day, billions of them experience unbearable cruelty.

Putting animals first isn’t just better for them, it’s vital for us and for our shared planet. Find out what we can do, with your support, to end the cruelty and exploitation of farmed and wild animals.