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Our approach is pragmatic and collaborative. We work with the direct democratic means available to us at the communal, cantonal and national levels. Our efforts are focused on agriculture, consumption, and animal dignity as defined in the Swiss federal constitution. A drastic reduction in the consumption of animal-based food is needed, but we realise that change will not happen overnight. We push for food system reform through political and institutional outreach.
Our roots in Effective Altruism motivate us to reduce animal suffering as efficiently as possible, and so to center our reasoning on their experience in the here and now. We are mindful, though, that the longterm environmental impact of animal agriculture represents the scope for even greater magnitudes of suffering as it affects us all. We therefore place great emphasis on the interconnectedness of harms and seek to build a broad and politically diverse supporter base.
Latest articles
Vague promises do not protect animals, transparency does
After examining Migros last week, Sentience is now turning the spotlight on Lidl to assess how well its practices align with the European Chicken Commitment (ECC), a scientific framework designed to reduce the suffering of broiler chickens...
When the market leader leads, millions of lives change
Across Switzerland, retailers shape animal welfare outcomes at scale. With the “Chicken Check”, we assess how Swiss retailers measure up to the standards of the European Chicken Commitment (ECC). To date, no Swiss retailer has signed the ECC...
Why Politics Must Extend Beyond Our Own Species
Why do our laws, institutions and policies still revolve mostly around one species – our own?
From Overlooked to Unmissable: A Voice for Invisible Animals
Just over a year ago, we launched the “Invisible Animals” campaign. Through our petition – which we aimed to give a voice to pigeons, rats, bees and fish – we gathered 34,970 signatures.
When Science Meets Policy: A Milestone for Animal Sentience
The LSE is launching a pioneering Centre for Animal Sentience, led by Prof. Jonathan Birch. At Sentience, we welcome this vital step—proof that science and policy must meet to put the concept of sentience at the heart of decision-making.
Fish farming: the invisible crisis we can no longer ignore
For the World Day of the End of Fishing and Fish Farming, we are called to confront the hidden suffering of billions of fish, as well as the urgent need for a transformative approach to aquaculture.
2024 Annual Report
The year 2024 marked a pivotal moment for our organisation. Despite limited human and financial resources, and thanks to the commitment of the entire team, we managed to lay solid foundations that now allow us to look forward to a motivating...
Migros’ Decision to Weaken Animal Welfare Standards: A Step Backward for Ethics and Sustainability
Migros recently announced that imported meat products will not have to meet Swiss animal welfare standards anymore. This move marks a significant setback.