New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness

On April 19, 2024, the New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness was published by New York University. It addresses the capacity of non-human animals to have conscious subjective experiences and emphasizes the implications that new knowledge from behavioral and neurobiology should have on human actions. There is now a wealth of research and publications demonstrating high levels of sensitivity—such as pain and emotions—as well as higher cognitive performance, complex behavior, and cultural behavior, not only in mammals but also in birds, fish, reptiles, and even invertebrates. Scientific evidence strongly suggests that even insects exhibit traits such as self-recognition, play behavior, and culture. Over 250 professors and researchers worldwide have already signed the declaration. Among them is the Chairman of the Board of M.E.E.R. e.V., Fabian Ritter.