The planned appointment of Silvia Breher, Parliamentary State Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (CDU), as the new Federal Animal Welfare Officer is drawing criticism from opposition parties. Representatives from both the Left and Green parties have expressed concerns that Ms. Breher will prioritize government policy over animal welfare interests, according to reports in the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland.
Ina Latendorf, a politician for the Left party, described the move as a step backwards, arguing that the issue is less about Ms. Breher personally and more about the perceived devaluation of the office itself through its combination with the role of Parliamentary State Secretary. She stated that this dual role unnecessarily diverts resources that would otherwise be dedicated to animal welfare initiatives nationwide.
Ms. Latendorf further emphasized that the direct connection between the Federal Animal Welfare Officer and the Ministry compromises the independence required to effectively address animal welfare concerns. She highlighted the importance of a strong and independent office, particularly given pressing issues such as climate change, environmental degradation and unresolved animal welfare challenges.
Referring to the EU’s Nature Restoration Law, Ms. Latendorf underscored the vital link between animal health, well-being and the integration of economic viability with biodiversity and ecological standards. She believes an independent voice is necessary to effectively navigate these complex issues.
Zoe Mayer, the Green party’s spokesperson for animal welfare, stated that animals deserve more than “mere political calculation”. She criticized the Ministry for seemingly downgrading a crucial role into a partisan position, suggesting that the interests of animals are secondary to the Minister’s political agenda.