This project is a collaboration between Ghent University and KU Leuven.

The research involves supervising a doctorate about the role of the animal in society with as common thread the "One Welfare" concept in which the interaction between animal and human welfare and the environment are central. "One Welfare" is considered a broadening of the "One Health" theme, with which it also partly overlaps. In recent months, it has become even clearer that the health and welfare of humans cannot be separated from that of animals and the environment. There is only "one well-being". Animals play an important role in this, but how we treat them can differ. These differences are usually not determined by the animal itself, but by humans.

More specifically, the doctoral research departs from the following questions:

• How do we deal with animals in society?
• What regulations are currently in place for different groups of animals: laboratory animals, agricultural animals, companion animals, pest animals, etc.?
• Should and can this be streamlined to a more unambiguous approach for these groups?
• What, if any, regulatory changes should be made to bring the above items into effect?

In addition to the doctoral research, an annual series of lectures entitled "Animals: Welfare, Law and Ethics" is also being organised, with lecturers from all the Flemish universities and university colleges with expertise, each from their own field and viewpoint. Non-Flemish speakers can also be involved for aspects that are less present in Flemish institutions. The series of lessons will be developed during the first year of the project and will then be launched in the 2021-2022 academic year.