Wereldcongres Voor Dierenbescherming 1950: Spirit and Legacy on

Global Animal Protection Movement

Arif Purnomo

and Ganda Febri Kurniawan

Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Sekaran Campus, Semarang 50229, Indonesia

Keywords: Animal Protection Movement, Global Cooperation, Animal Welfare

Abstract: This article examines the Wereldcongres voor Dierenbescherming (World Congress for Animal Protection)

held in 1950 at the Kurhaus in Scheveningen, a pivotal event in the history of global animal protection. The

congress, opened by Dr. W. Hugenholtz with Queen Juliana in attendance, aimed to address pressing

international animal welfare concerns while strengthening global cooperation. A key goal was the creation of

a large international association comprising all animal protection organizations worldwide. Several notable

resolutions were passed, including the abolition of trained animal performances in circuses and other venues,

the immediate closure of non-scientific and commercial zoos, and limiting scientific zoos to one per 15 million

inhabitants. The congress also underscored the importance of public education, particularly in fostering

respect for living creatures among the youth, and highlighted the role of religious institutions in promoting

animal welfare. This article explores the congress’s enduring legacy, emphasizing its role in shaping

contemporary animal protection laws and its influence on the ongoing global movement for animal welfare.

The event’s historical significance continues to inspire international efforts toward humane treatment and

protection of animals worldwide.

1 INTRODUCTION

In the mid-20th century, awareness of animal welfare

began to rise alongside the global consciousness

about ethics and animal rights. Despite numerous

efforts by local and national organizations to protect

animals from exploitation and cruelty (Boomgaard,

2004; MacKenzie, 2017), varying approaches and a

lack of coordination between countries and regions

hindered the effectiveness of these efforts.

Differences in regulations, ethical standards, and

cultural perspectives on animal protection created

significant gaps in animal welfare practices

worldwide (Boomgaard, 1998; Clason, 1967;

Thoenes et al., 2009). Amidst these challenges, an

urgent need arose for a platform to coordinate and

unify the global animal protection movement to

establish fundamental principles and shared policies

that could be widely adopted.

The 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, held in Scheveningen, was a

response to this need for global coordination in the

animal protection movement. This congress not only

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9209-8839

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1563-1249

served as a forum for discussion but also provided an

opportunity for organizations from various countries

to reach consensus in advocating for animal rights

and welfare (Bronner, 2008; Reporter, 1927, 1929).

One of the primary issues addressed was the

exploitation of animals in the entertainment and

commercial industries (Boomgaard, 1994), where

animal welfare was often disregarded in favor of

economic gain (Boomgaard, 1999). Additionally, the

congress emphasized the importance of public

education and the role of religion in instilling animal

welfare values across broader society (Reporter,

1930). Through the resolutions it produced, this

congress sought to establish a stronger ethical and

operational foundation for the international animal

protection movement, marking a historic starting

point in the advocacy for animal rights worldwide.

The main concept of this article centers on welfare

state theory in the context of animal protection, which

emphasizes the duty of the state and society to

safeguard the welfare of all living beings, including

animals. According to this theory, animal protection

should be part of public policy aimed at reducing

Purnomo, A. and Kurniawan, G. F.

Wereldcongres Voor Dierenbescherming 1950: Spirit and Legacy on Global Animal Protection Movement.

DOI: 10.5220/0013407800004654

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Humanities Education, Law, and Social Science (ICHELS 2024), pages 5-16

ISBN: 978-989-758-752-8

animal exploitation and suffering (Singer, 2004). This

idea aligns with the utilitarian theory proposed by

Jeremy Bentham and Peter Singer, where an action is

considered right if it minimizes suffering and

maximizes welfare. This principle supports the view

that humans have a moral responsibility to protect

animals from inhumane treatment, making animal

protection an integral part of ethical commitments

and global social responsibility.

Additionally, social movement theory is

employed to understand how the 1950 congress

became a catalyst for the international animal

protection movement. This theory emphasizes the

importance of social and collective organizations in

creating sustainable structural change (Tilly & Wood,

2015). By bringing together key figures and

international organizations, the congress succeeded in

establishing a cooperative network that transcended

national boundaries. According to Sidney Tarrow

(Tarrow, 2022), an effective social movement forms

when there is solidarity among actors, a clear agenda,

and a shared strategy—all of which were present at

the congress. Thus, these concepts provide a

framework for understanding why the 1950 congress

had such a profound and lasting impact on the global

movement for animal protection.

Previous research has shown that animal

protection efforts have evolved through various social

movements and policies aimed at reducing animal

exploitation in the entertainment, laboratory, and

commercial trade sectors. Francione’s study

(Francione, 2008) n Animals as Persons: Essays on

the Abolition of Animal Exploitation reveals that

banning animal exploitation in the entertainment

industry is a crucial first step in shifting public

perception regarding animal rights. Another study by

Regan (Regan, 2016) in The Case for Animal Rights

strengthens the understanding that animal welfare

policy should extend beyond physical protection,

encompassing the fundamental right to live free from

unnecessary suffering. Additionally, Singer's

research (Singer, 2004) in Animal Liberation

underscores the importance of an educational

approach to instill ethical values on animal protection

in society from an early age. These findings are

relevant to this study as they support the notion that

international animal protection movements, like those

initiated at the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, have had a significant impact on

shaping public understanding and policies regarding

animal rights globally.

This study aims to examine the historical role and

legacy of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming in shaping the global animal

protection movement and its influence on public

policy and perceptions of animal welfare. The

primary contribution of this research is to offer a fresh

perspective on the long-term impact of this historic

congress, which served as a starting point for

international agreements on banning animal

exploitation and emphasized the importance of public

education. The significance of this study lies in its

ability to bridge the understanding between history

and modern policy, illustrating how the principles

established at the congress remain relevant in shaping

contemporary animal welfare policies. The novelty of

this research is found in its in-depth analytical

approach to the congress's role in building an

international animal protection network, a topic that

has been underexplored in historical studies on

animal protection. The originality of this study is

evident in its emphasis on the importance of the 1950

congress's legacy in inspiring current policies and

movements for animal protection, making a

significant contribution to the literature connecting

the history of social movements with global animal

protection policy.

2 METHOD

2.1 Research Design

This study employs a historical research design using

Renier's framework (Renier, 2016) to reconstruct the

events of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming and analyze its impact on the

global animal protection movement. This approach

relies on historical methods, utilizing primary sources

in the form of archival newspapers from Australia, the

Netherlands, Canada, India, the United States, and

Switzerland that document the congress and related

events. These sources enable the researcher to

understand the social and political context

surrounding the congress while exploring

international public reactions to the resolutions it

produced. By examining news archives from

countries with differing perspectives, this research

design offers broader insights into the congress's

global reception and influence, enriching the

historical interpretation of its role in laying the

foundations for the animal protection standards we

recognize today.

2.2 Data and Source of Data

This research relies on primary data sourced from

international newspapers, including from Australia:

The Advertiser, Adelaide (1929), Townsville Daily

Bulletin, Queensland (1927), Sunday Mail, Brisbane

ICHELS 2024 - The International Conference on Humanities Education, Law, and Social Science

(1930); from the Netherlands: Eindhovensch

Dagblad, Eindhoven (1950), Deventer Dagblad,

Deventer (1950), De Noord-Ooster, Groningen

(1950), Nieuwe Apeldoornsche Courant, Apeldoorn

(1950), Nieuwsblad van het Noorden, Groningen

(1950), Het Binnenhof, Zurich (1958), and Algemeen

Dagblad, Rotterdam (1978); from Canada: The

Windsor Daily Star, Ontario (1950), The Calgary

Herald, Alberta (1950); from India: The Indian

Express, Uttar Pradesh (1950); from the United States:

The Spokesman-Review, Washington (1950), The

Washington Reporter, Washington (1950), Toledo

Blade, Ohio (1950), The Dispatch, North Carolina

(1950); and from Switzerland: Het Binnenhof, Zurich

(1958). These newspapers documented the events and

proceedings of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming.

The Dutch-language newspapers are particularly

valuable for their local perspective on the congress,

including Dutch media's recognition of prominent

figures like Dr. W. Hugenholtz and Queen Juliana's

presence. These articles offer insights into the

discussions, resolutions, and domestic public

responses regarding the animal welfare issues

prioritized by the congress. Additionally, through

Dutch newspapers, this research examines historical

details concerning the background, objectives, and

dynamics that unfolded during the congress in

Scheveningen, the Netherlands.

On the other hand, international newspapers serve

as complementary sources, revealing how the event

was received and reported from countries outside

Europe. The non-European press provides an external

view, illustrating the extent of international attention

garnered by the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming and the global resonance of its

agenda and resolutions. These reports assist this

research in assessing the congress's impact on public

opinion and animal welfare awareness more broadly.

By combining perspectives from these countries, this

study reveals the congress's global influence and

identifies cross-national responses and support for the

animal protection issues discussed at that time.

2.3 Data Collection

The data collection techniques in this study were

carried out through document analysis of newspaper

archives that recorded the events and developments

of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor Dierenbescherming.

These newspaper archives were obtained from

archival institutions and libraries with both digital and

physical collections of old newspapers. The data

collection process began with identifying and

selecting relevant articles, followed by content

analysis to gather information related to the events

and issues discussed at the congress. This process

involved keyword searches and specific topics related

to animal welfare and the congress’s agenda, ensuring

that the collected data effectively supports the

research objectives.

In addition to newspaper documentation, the

study also conducted cross-verification of the

information obtained to ensure data accuracy and

validity. This technique involved comparing news

content from multiple newspapers to assess the

alignment and consistency of information regarding

the congress’s agenda, resolutions, and public

reactions. Data collection also included constructing

a chronological sequence of events to fully

understand the social and political context

surrounding the congress. Through this approach, the

study was able to gather detailed and in-depth data,

documenting not only the congress's content but also

its impact and influence on domestic and international

audiences at the time.

2.4 Trustworthiness Data

The reliability of the data in this study is ensured

through a rigorous process of verification and source

triangulation, involving the comparison of

information from various newspapers reporting on

the 1950 Wereldcongres voor Dierenbescherming.

This process ensures that data obtained from one

newspaper source can be validated or corroborated by

other sources, especially when those sources originate

from different countries. Through this source

triangulation, the researcher can identify consistency

in reports regarding the congress’s agenda,

resolutions, and public responses, reducing the risk of

bias or inaccuracies. These steps are crucial to

maintain data reliability and ensure that the research

findings are based on verified facts.

Additionally, the accuracy of the data is

strengthened through critical analysis of the political

and social context during the congress, which helps to

understand how each newspaper may have been

influenced by cultural or national perspectives. The

researcher considers the potential for editorial bias

and varying media viewpoints in reporting on animal

welfare issues at that time. This approach ensures that

the study does not rely solely on texts as raw data

sources but also confirms the historical background

and relevance of the issues in both local and

international contexts. Consequently, the accuracy of

the resulting data is high, and its relevance strongly

reflects the congress's influence on the global animal

protection movement.

Wereldcongres Voor Dierenbescherming 1950: Spirit and Legacy on Global Animal Protection Movement

2.5 Data Analysis

The data analysis techniques in this study begin with

a content analysis approach to newspaper articles

related to the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming. Each article is analyzed to

identify key themes, such as the congress’s agenda

and resolutions, public reactions, and responses from

prominent figures and institutions involved. This

process involves examining keywords, phrases, and

contexts associated with animal welfare. By

highlighting these essential aspects, the researcher

can identify emerging patterns in the congress’s

coverage, gaining deeper insight into the issues

considered significant at the time. This content

analysis helps organize data into relevant categories,

facilitating interpretation and conclusion-drawing.

The next step is a comparative analysis, where

articles from Dutch newspapers are compared with

those from Australian newspapers. This technique is

used to evaluate differences in perspectives and

viewpoints from each country regarding the congress

and animal welfare issues. Through this comparative

analysis, the researcher can assess consistency and

variation in international and domestic reporting,

providing insights into how the congress’s issues

were received globally. This technique also allows

the researcher to observe how national cultures and

policies may influence how the media respond to and

present information related to the animal protection

movement.

3 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

3.1 Background and Projection of the

Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming

The reports by Eindhovensch Dagblad and Deventer

Dagblad highlight the series of events surrounding

the 1950 Wereldcongres voor Dierenbescherming

held at Kurhaus in Scheveningen. Both reports

underscore the congress's importance to the

international public and the involvement of

prominent figures at its opening, including Queen

Juliana, whose presence lent legitimacy and

significance to the event. On August 27 (Reporter,

1950l), the evening before the congress commenced,

a welcoming meeting was held at the Kurhaus Hotel

to initiate the congress’s activities. This meeting also

served as an opportunity for organizers to establish

the International Council for the World Congress on

Animal Protection, which functioned as the main

steering committee and played a crucial role in

strategic decision-making related to animal

protection agendas.

An analysis of this event series reveals that the

1950 congress was not merely an academic meeting

or internal discussion but a large-scale event with a

clear organizational structure aimed at fostering

international collaboration among animal protection

organizations. The decision to form an International

Council indicates that the congress sought to create a

permanent body capable of continuing and expanding

animal protection efforts globally (Reporter, 1950j).

With the official opening by Queen Juliana, the

congress attracted attention not only from Dutch

media but also internationally, which contributed to

raising global awareness about animal welfare issues.

The well-organized structure of the event and royal

support illustrated that the Netherlands, at that time,

positioned itself as a central hub for the global animal

protection movement, with the hope that the critical

decisions made at this congress would have a broad

impact on international animal welfare policies.

The involvement of Queen Juliana and the

establishment of the International Council

underscored a serious commitment to forming a more

organized global movement, reflecting an awareness

of the importance of cross-national collaboration in

addressing issues of animal exploitation and welfare.

The formation of a committee responsible for guiding

the congress and continuing as an international

supervisory council showed that congress

participants shared a long-term vision of making

animal protection a collective priority. Through this

congress, various relevant resolutions were agreed

upon and designed for implementation in multiple

countries. Thus, the congress served not only as a

forum for discussion but also as a strategic platform

to advance international animal welfare policies.

In the opening of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, Dr. W. Hugenholtz expressed

that society’s concern for animals' position was

growing, reflecting a shift toward more inclusive

moral development (Reporter, 1950f). Citing

Clemenceau, who referred to animals as the “fifth

class,” Hugenholtz drew a parallel to other

marginalized groups of the past—such as the poor,

slaves, women, and children—who eventually gained

dignity and attention. This statement reflects

Hugenholtz’s progressive outlook, viewing animal

protection as part of humanity’s moral evolution.

With the success of human rights movements for

various vulnerable groups, he argued that society

should now expand its ethical circle to include

animals, who remain entangled in exploitation and

helplessness.

Dr. W. Hugenholtz was an activist and prominent

leader in the animal protection movement in the

Netherlands during the mid-20th century. He was

ICHELS 2024 - The International Conference on Humanities Education, Law, and Social Science

widely recognized for his role in advancing animal

welfare issues through the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, where he played a key role in

promoting international collaboration for the

establishment of policies to protect animals.

Hugenholtz introduced a progressive view that

animals, like other vulnerable groups, deserve dignity

and protection from exploitation and cruelty. Through

his influence, he advocated for the formation of an

international association aimed at creating consistent

animal protection legislation across various countries.

Historical sources from Dutch newspaper archives,

such as De Noord-Ooster and Nieuwe Apeldoornsche

Courant, frequently highlight Hugenholtz’s

contributions to the congress, reflecting his

dedication to animal protection ethics that continues

to inspire today.

Hugenholtz employed historical and moral

frameworks to legitimize the fight for animal rights

on a global level. His statements went beyond

rhetoric, illustrating how animal protection was

beginning to be seen as part of humanity’s growing

social and ethical responsibility. By positioning

animals within the “fifth class,” Hugenholtz

successfully built a powerful narrative that animals

deserve serious attention from society. This approach

reinforced the congress’s relevance as a forum to

address pressing animal welfare issues that demanded

immediate action. Drawing parallels to the successful

advocacy for human vulnerable groups, Hugenholtz

emphasized that the animal protection movement

could follow a similar path to achieve comparable

success.

Furthermore, Hugenholtz highlighted two

primary goals of the congress: a collaborative

discussion on international animal welfare issues and

the strengthening of international cooperation

through the establishment of a global animal

protection association. This demonstrated the

congress’s ambition to go beyond theoretical

discussions, aiming instead to build a structural

foundation that would enable cross-border

collaboration (Reporter, 1950k). The formation of

this major international association was envisioned as

a platform for animal protection organizations

worldwide, facilitating the exchange of information,

resources, and support across nations. This long-term

vision aimed to reinforce the animal protection

movement through a more integrated organizational

structure. Analysis suggests that the 1950 congress

had grand aspirations to create a sustainable global

network to support and advance animal welfare,

laying the groundwork for future animal protection

policies.

In his remarks, Hugenholtz described the strategic

vision of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming to establish an international

association that would connect with bureaus in Paris

and Geneva, tasked with designing standardized and

modern animal protection laws. This plan emphasized

the importance of legal harmonization among

countries, with the goal of enabling each nation to

implement consistent standards for animal welfare.

Through this international network, it was hoped that

animal protection policies would gain stronger

legitimacy and momentum for adoption by various

countries. This approach reflects an effort to

overcome differences in policy and approach to

animal welfare across nations, ensuring that animal

protection issues could be addressed more

systematically and comprehensively on a global

scale.

However, Hugenholtz also acknowledged the

significant challenges in implementing these laws

within each country, even when established in

international legal documents. He recognized that the

success of animal protection legislation relies not

only on policy formulation but also on the readiness

and acceptance of society in each nation. In other

words, this international legislation must be

supported by shifts in public attitudes and awareness

to be truly effective on the ground. This analysis

indicates that while the congress was ambitious in

striving for unified policies, it was also realistic about

the complexities of legal implementation within

diverse cultural and social contexts. Consequently,

the congress focused not only on legal aspects but

also emphasized the importance of public education

as a step toward ensuring societal acceptance of

animal protection, reinforcing the idea that substantial

change is only achievable when accompanied by a

shift in collective attitudes.

The 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming placed significant emphasis on

educating youth, recognizing the importance of

fostering ethical awareness from an early age.

Educational initiatives proposed during the congress

were designed to integrate animal welfare into school

curricula, focusing on empathy and the ethical

treatment of animals as core values. Programs often

included interactive activities such as visits to animal

shelters, discussions on humane practices, and the

inclusion of animal welfare topics in civics and ethics

classes. These efforts aimed to create a generational

shift in attitudes toward animals, embedding

compassion and responsibility into cultural norms.

Long-term effects of these initiatives became evident

in subsequent decades, as countries that adopted such

programs saw increased public support for animal

protection policies and higher engagement in

advocacy efforts. For example, educational

campaigns in Scandinavia during the 1960s, inspired

Wereldcongres Voor Dierenbescherming 1950: Spirit and Legacy on Global Animal Protection Movement

by the congress, led to widespread awareness of

humane farming practices and stricter animal welfare

legislation. These outcomes underscore the

transformative potential of early education in shaping

societal values and advancing the goals of the animal

protection movement.

The involvement of figures such as Queen Juliana

and Dr. W. Hugenholtz significantly shaped the

outcomes of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, lending both legitimacy and

vision to the event. Queen Juliana’s presence at the

congress’s opening ceremony elevated its

prominence, drawing international attention and

underscoring the Dutch monarchy’s endorsement of

animal welfare as a global issue. Her participation not

only reflected the cultural significance of the congress

within the Netherlands but also helped attract

influential figures and organizations from around the

world. By aligning herself with the congress, Queen

Juliana symbolized the moral and ethical importance

of animal protection, giving the resolutions and

discussions a level of gravitas that would have been

difficult to achieve otherwise.

Dr. W. Hugenholtz, as a key organizer and

advocate, played a critical role in shaping the

congress’s agenda and ensuring its impact extended

beyond mere discussions. His progressive views on

animal welfare, which framed animals as deserving of

dignity and protection akin to other marginalized

groups, resonated with contemporary ethical debates.

Hugenholtz’s leadership in proposing actionable

resolutions, such as the establishment of an

international animal protection association,

demonstrated his strategic vision for transforming the

congress into a launching point for sustained global

collaboration. His ability to connect philosophical

ideals with practical measures ensured that the

congress’s outcomes were not only aspirational but

also implementable. Together, the influence of Queen

Juliana and Dr. Hugenholtz provided the congress

with both symbolic authority and operational

direction, amplifying its impact on the global animal

protection movement.

3.2 Progressive Ideas on Animal

Protection and Congressional

Resolutions

Before the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, global animal welfare efforts

were fragmented and often limited to localized

initiatives. During the early 20th century, animal

protection laws existed in several countries, but they

varied significantly in scope and enforcement. For

example, while the United Kingdom had

implemented the Cruelty to Animals Act as early as

1835, other nations lagged in legislating against

animal cruelty. The lack of international consensus on

animal rights and welfare left many issues

unaddressed, particularly in industries such as

entertainment, transportation, and scientific research.

Moreover, public awareness of animal welfare as an

ethical concern was minimal, with most societies

viewing animals primarily as resources for human use.

Against this backdrop, the congress marked a

significant turning point by bringing together diverse

stakeholders to address these gaps and laying the

foundation for global collaboration.

The congress’s impact is further underscored

when considering the socio-political context of the

post-World War II era. The war had highlighted the

interconnectedness of nations and the need for

collective action to address global issues, a sentiment

that resonated in the animal welfare movement. The

establishment of the United Nations in 1945 had set a

precedent for international cooperation, and the

congress mirrored this approach by creating a

platform for dialogue and policymaking on animal

protection. By adopting resolutions on issues such as

vivisection, circus animal exploitation, and pet

mutilation, the congress not only raised awareness but

also created a roadmap for future international

standards. These efforts bridged the gap between

localized activism and the emerging global

movement, emphasizing the moral and practical

importance of protecting animals in a rapidly

modernizing world.

At the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, several key resolutions were

adopted with the aim of enhancing global animal

welfare standards. One of the main recommendations

was the use of anesthesia or mechanical stunning for

animals prior to slaughter. This resolution

underscored the congress’s commitment to

minimizing animal suffering in the food industry and

slaughterhouses, which at the time often disregarded

animal welfare. This decision was intended not just as

a local measure but as an international standard that

could be adopted by various countries. The

recommendation also reflected an understanding that

slaughtering animals for human consumption could

be conducted in a more humane manner, aligning

with a fundamental principle of animal welfare

(Reporter, 1950a).

Additionally, the congress proposed eliminating

the use of blindfolds for animals, commonly applied

during transportation or other potentially stressful

activities. This resolution marked an effort to

consider animal comfort and welfare more broadly,

even in minor aspects of their lives. In another

ICHELS 2024 - The International Conference on Humanities Education, Law, and Social Science

session, Reverend J. B. Th. Hugenholtz delivered a

speech on the importance of international legislation

protecting animal rights. He suggested that the United

Nations establish a declaration of animal rights

equivalent to the Declaration of Human Rights, as a

formal recognition of animals’ existence and their

right to live free from cruelty (Reporter, 1950i). This

proposal reflected the congress’s ambitious vision to

incorporate animal protection into a more established

international legal framework, reinforcing the

urgency of protecting the fundamental rights of

animals as living beings.

Religious institutions have historically played a

role in shaping ethical perspectives on animal

welfare, and their influence was notably highlighted

during the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming. For example, Christian doctrines

emphasizing stewardship over creation have often

been interpreted as a moral imperative to care for

animals. Reverend J. B. Th. Hugenholtz, a key figure

at the congress, used religious rhetoric to advocate for

the ethical treatment of animals, suggesting that

human responsibility extends beyond other people to

all living beings. His speech cited theological

principles that frame humanity as caretakers of the

Earth, arguing that animal welfare is an extension of

this divine duty. This perspective resonated with

religious organizations that supported humane

treatment as part of broader moral responsibilities.

In other religious contexts, Hinduism and

Buddhism have long emphasized nonviolence

(ahimsa) as a core value, which extends to animals.

For instance, in India, these principles have inspired

policies such as bans on cow slaughter and the

protection of sacred animals. While not directly

connected to the congress, these practices reflect the

broader alignment between religious teachings and

the goals of the animal protection movement. During

the congress, delegates from countries with Buddhist

and Hindu traditions brought these perspectives into

discussions, highlighting the compatibility of

religious values with modern welfare initiatives. By

incorporating these case studies and religious

viewpoints, the congress demonstrated a universal

ethical framework for animal welfare, showing how

religious institutions could be powerful allies in

advancing the movement globally.

The congress’s efforts to establish an international

animal protection association marked a significant

milestone in the history of the animal welfare

movement. This association was envisioned as a

platform connecting existing animal protection

organizations worldwide, creating a collaborative

network that would facilitate consensus in policy

formulation and more effective implementation of

resolutions. With this international body, animal

welfare issues could be addressed in a structured and

sustainable manner, encouraging countries to adopt

more humane regulations for the treatment of

animals. This resolution reflected not only the

congress’s aspirations but also laid a vital foundation

for building global awareness of the need for animal

rights protection and internationally recognized

animal welfare standards.

At the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming, a series of critical resolutions

was adopted to strengthen animal protection and

welfare across various sectors. One resolution

highlighted the practice of tail docking in horses and

dogs, as well as ear cropping in dogs. The congress

proposed a ban on these practices in all countries,

deeming them inhumane and unnecessary for the

animals, driven instead by aesthetics without regard

for animal welfare. Additionally, the topic of

vivisection—scientific experimentation using live

animals—was a focal point of the congress and drew

significant attention from participants. A majority

supported the establishment of an international

association dedicated to overseeing this practice,

signaling that vivisection was a controversial issue

requiring regulation and special attention to protect

animals from unnecessary exploitation.

The congress also proposed an ambitious

resolution to adapt the best animal protection laws

from various countries to form an international

charter safeguarding animals' fundamental right. This

resolution affirmed that animals should not be

regarded as property to be sold or destroyed at will.

In this context, the congress urged a total ban on the

use of animals in circus performances, which were

often criticized for neglecting animal welfare in

pursuit of commercial profit. The congress further

recommended the immediate closure of all non-

scientific and commercial zoos, stipulating that

scientific zoos be limited to one per fifteen million

people (Reporter, 1950b). This resolution reflected

the congress’s efforts to establish a global, more

humane standard for animal treatment and to

eliminate the exploitation of animals in entertainment

that fails to support their welfare. Over time, nations

like Germany and Austria introduced partial or

complete bans on wild animals in circuses,

demonstrating the resolution’s influence. These

outcomes highlight the congress's role in not only

shaping public opinion but also prompting legislative

action that aligned with the ethical standards

promoted during the congress, setting a global

trajectory for advancing animal welfare.

Additionally, special attention was given to bird

protection, as many birds were subject to exploitation

through illegal capture and trade. The congress called

for an international agreement prohibiting the

capture, killing, and sale of wild birds, with

exceptions made only for certain game bird species

Wereldcongres Voor Dierenbescherming 1950: Spirit and Legacy on Global Animal Protection Movement

under strict regulations. This recommendation

included the protection of natural habitats and

restrictions on enclosure sizes for caged birds, with a

minimum standard of one cubic meter per bird. The

goal of this recommendation was to ensure that

captive birds receive not only adequate physical care

but also sufficient space to support their natural

behaviors. By addressing a range of specific issues

and broad protections, these resolutions underscored

the congress’s aim to enhance animal welfare

comprehensively and to create regulations that reduce

exploitation across various sectors, from

entertainment to the wildlife trade.

The 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming produced a range of progressive

resolutions that reflected a strong commitment to

improving global animal welfare standards. One of

the key resolutions proposed was the establishment of

national quarantine laws, seen as crucial for disease

prevention and animal protection (Reporter, 1950d).

However, the congress also recommended shorter

quarantine periods in certain cases, hoping that an

international agreement could allow this flexibility

without compromising animal safety. This resolution

highlighted the congress’s understanding of the need

to balance animal safety and comfort during

quarantine procedures. Additionally, in a broader

effort to support animal welfare, the congress

advocated for a reduction in global meat

consumption, reflecting the view that human

consumption habits have a significant impact on

animal life and exploitation.

The congress also marked the beginning of the

International Society for Animal Protection, with The

Hague chosen as the headquarters for the new

organization. This society aimed to unite 108

international organizations represented by 300

delegates, creating a strong network to promote the

implementation of resolutions and the development

of consistent animal protection policies across

various countries (Reporter, 1950c). The decision to

establish the headquarters in The Hague

demonstrated that the congress focused not only on

discussion but also on tangible action through a

structured organization that could more effectively

advocate for animal rights.

Additionally, figures like Dave Boon, a writer and

commentator known for his satirical takes on social

and environmental issues, including animal

protection, added a humorous yet poignant

commentary. Boon noted ironically that animals were

now protected by laws offering them security

equivalent to humans, even jesting that animals might

"run to the wilderness" if they faced the same

challenges as humans. Although satirical, his

statement underscored the heightened public

attention brought to animal rights issues by the

congress on a larger scale.

The congress was widely praised in various

publications, which regarded it as an important post-

war step for animal protection. One commentator

expressed hope that an ideal society, in which humans

coexist without injustice toward one another, would

also encompass fair treatment of animals. Resolutions

concerning the prohibition of vivisection, animal

circuses, and pet mutilation underscored the

congress’s perspective that humanity’s treatment of

animals reflects society’s moral progress (Reporter,

1950h). Another critique, highlighted by The Calgary

Herald, pointed out the exploitation of animals for

food and entertainment, drawing parallels to the ways

humans treat each other (Reporter, 1950e). These

reflections indicate that the 1950 congress initiated an

ethical discourse that questioned the nature of

humanity’s relationship with animals, where the

desire to end injustice toward animals was seen as

part of the journey toward a more just world for all

living beings.

3.3 Congress's Legacy for the Global

Animal Protection Movement

The 1950 Wereldcongres voor Dierenbescherming

left a profound legacy for the global animal protection

movement, which has continued to grow through

subsequent congresses and the strengthening of

international policies. The third congress, held in

Zurich in 1958—eight years after the first meeting in

The Hague—demonstrated the continuity and

expansion of this movement at the global level. Dr.

Mr. W. Hugenholtz’s speech, delivered as he presided

over the World Federation for Animal Protection,

affirmed that animal protection had transcended

national boundaries and evolved into an international

movement. His slogan, “Animal protectors of the

world, unite,” (Reporter, 1958) encapsulated the

collective spirit that bound countries together to

collaborate in reducing animal exploitation and

enhancing their protection. This statement reflects the

pivotal role that the 1950 congress and subsequent

meetings played in establishing a well-organized,

globally oriented movement that has reached across

nations and fostered awareness of animal welfare.

The legacy of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming has continued to grow within the

global animal protection movement, even as

balancing economic interests with conservation

remains a primary challenge. The ongoing discourse

on limiting the commercial exploitation of animals

while safeguarding their rights and welfare has

remained a central theme in international congresses,

ICHELS 2024 - The International Conference on Humanities Education, Law, and Social Science

such as the World Congress in West Berlin in 1978

(Reporter, 1978). Attended by approximately 200

animal protection organizations from 45 countries,

this congress adopted the theme "Animal Protection:

Ethical Demands and Economic Reality." It focused

on finding solutions to the conflict between the moral

imperative to protect animals and the economic

reality that often regards animals as resources. The

congress chairman, Jong Schouwenberg of the

Netherlands, emphasized the importance of

international solidarity in mitigating the negative

impacts of human activity on animal welfare. This

indicates that while the aims of animal protection

have broadened, the tension between ethics and

economics remains a significant obstacle to achieving

comprehensive animal welfare worldwide.

The legacy of the 1950 congress is also reflected

in subsequent environmental and nature protection

policies, such as the 1964 Wilderness Act in the

United States. While this law primarily focuses on

protecting wilderness areas rather than directly

addressing animal welfare, its core objective—to

preserve certain regions free from human

interference—aligns with principles advocated by

animal protection congresses. As reported by The

Dispatch in 1984 (Reporter, 1950g), 83 million acres

of land were designated as wilderness sanctuaries,

where life is safeguarded from destructive human

intervention. This type of protection offers space for

flora and fauna to thrive naturally, reducing the risk

of human exploitation that often threatens animal

habitats and biodiversity.

However, the implementation of such policies has

not always been seamless. Although the Wilderness

Act describes these lands as places where “man is a

visitor who does not remain,” reality has often

diverged from this ideal. Some recreational activities,

such as hiking and horseback riding, are allowed but

sometimes conflict with strict conservation

principles. This highlights the challenges faced by the

animal protection and environmental movements:

despite significant progress, policy implementation

frequently encounters the need for compromise

between habitat preservation and human demands.

The legacy of the 1950 congress remains a source of

inspiration for the ongoing movement to maintain this

balance, emphasizing the importance of consistent,

global protection for animal welfare and the

environment.

The tensions between conservation and business

interests, as seen in debates surrounding the U.S.

Wilderness Act, illustrate that these challenges extend

beyond animal welfare to the broader management of

natural resources. Industry executives, such as David

S. Holland of the American Petroleum Institute,

voiced opposition to restricting economic activities

on federally protected lands, citing the need to boost

oil and gas production. This perspective prioritizes

economic considerations over conservation efforts,

indicating that although protected lands and

conservation systems have been established, their

implementation and use remain subjects of intense

debate. The conflict between economic demands and

conservation underscores the ongoing challenges

faced by the global animal protection movement to

ensure that the advancements in protective legislation

are not merely symbolic but effectively implemented

in practice.

The 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming was a significant milestone in the

history of animal protection, distinguished by its

international scope and collaborative approach.

Compared to earlier milestones, such as the

establishment of the Royal Society for the Prevention

of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) in 1824, the congress

expanded the framework for animal welfare from

national advocacy to a global platform. While the

RSPCA focused on domestic legislation and

education in the United Kingdom, the 1950 congress

sought to harmonize animal welfare standards across

nations, addressing global challenges such as

vivisection, circus animal exploitation, and pet

mutilation. This shift from localized action to

international coordination represented a critical

evolution in the animal protection movement.

Similarly, when compared to the adoption of the

Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW)

decades later, the 1950 congress can be seen as a

foundational step that laid the groundwork for such

global agreements. While UDAW, introduced in the

2000s, emphasized the integration of animal welfare

into international development policies, the 1950

congress pioneered the idea of creating a unified

framework for animal protection through resolutions

and the establishment of an international network.

The congress’s emphasis on collaborative efforts and

its actionable resolutions provided a model for

subsequent milestones, demonstrating its unique

contribution as a precursor to modern global animal

welfare initiatives. By comparing the 1950 congress

to these key events, its role as a transformative

moment in the history of animal protection becomes

even more apparent.

These animal protection congresses addressed not

only practical issues but also the philosophical

dimensions of human responsibility toward animals.

The theme of solidarity emphasized by

Schouwenberg underscores that animal protection

requires collective support and international resolve

to mitigate the negative impacts of human activity.

The adverse effects caused by commercial

exploitation and industrial activities are not just legal

or policy issues; they are also a matter of moral

responsibility that the global community must

Wereldcongres Voor Dierenbescherming 1950: Spirit and Legacy on Global Animal Protection Movement

acknowledge. Thus, the legacy of the 1950 congress

endures as a call for international solidarity and

recognition of animal rights as living beings,

reinforcing the idea that animal welfare is an integral

part of a sustainable and ethical vision for the world.

The influence of the 1950 Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming is evident in several

contemporary laws and movements that reflect its

resolutions and advocacy. For example, the European

Convention for the Protection of Animals Kept for

Farming Purposes, adopted in 1976, echoes the

congress’s call for humane treatment in animal

farming. This convention established guidelines for

housing, feeding, and care that minimize animal

suffering, directly aligning with the congress’s

resolution on reducing cruelty in slaughterhouses and

farming practices. Similarly, the Animal Welfare Act

enacted in the United Kingdom in 2006, which

consolidated and modernized various animal

protection laws, can be traced back to the growing

global awareness and legislative momentum inspired

by the congress’s initiatives.

Beyond legislation, the congress also influenced

the creation of international advocacy organizations,

such as the World Federation for Animals (now

merged with World Animal Protection), which was

founded in the years following the congress. This

organization continues to champion many of the

principles first discussed at the 1950 congress,

including ending the use of animals in circuses and

advocating for humane scientific practices. These

modern initiatives illustrate the congress’s legacy,

bridging its historical resolutions with ongoing efforts

to enhance global standards for animal welfare. By

fostering international collaboration and setting

ethical precedents, the congress laid the groundwork

for many contemporary movements that continue to

address the complex challenges of animal protection

today.

These findings expand the understanding of the

application of welfare state theory in animal

protection by emphasizing the importance of public

policy that involves the responsibility of both the state

and society to safeguard animal welfare. This

approach aligns with the utilitarian principles

proposed by Bentham and Singer (Singer, 2004),

which hold that the morally correct action is one that

minimizes suffering and maximizes well-being. In

this context, the state is expected not only to

implement policies that prevent animal exploitation

but also to establish proactive regulations that

enhance animal welfare. These findings are consistent

with previous research by Francione and Regan

(Regan, 2016), who argue that animal protection

should include the right to live free from unnecessary

suffering, reinforcing animal welfare as part of global

ethical responsibility and social commitment.

In addition to welfare state theory, this study also

employs social movement theory to explain how the

1950 Wereldcongres voor Dierenbescherming

became a launch point for the international animal

protection movement. The congress succeeded in

creating a strong network of cross-national

collaboration, bringing together key figures and

international organizations committed to animal

protection. This aligns with Tarrow’s (Tarrow, 2022)

view of effective social movements, which require

solidarity, a clear agenda, and a shared strategy to

achieve sustainable structural change. This study

demonstrates that the congress’s success in building

a global network focused on animal protection

underscores the importance of international

collaboration in achieving significant social change,

as supported by previous research on the impact of

collective organizations in advancing animal rights.

Previous research also shows that steps in animal

protection, such as those exemplified by Singer in

Animal Liberation, aim not only to reduce

exploitation but also to raise ethical awareness in

society. Education as a tool for social change, as

emphasized in Singer’s research, serves as a

foundation for changing public perceptions of animal

rights from an early age. This study reinforces the

concept that the animal protection movement plays a

crucial role in shaping global policy and

understanding of animal rights, reflected in the long-

term influence of the 1950 congress. These findings

support the argument that an education-based

approach and international collaboration can create a

broad impact in advancing animal welfare.

4 CONCLUSIONS

This research reveals that the 1950 Wereldcongres

voor Dierenbescherming played a significant role as

a foundational milestone in the international animal

protection movement, marking a shift from national

animal protection initiatives toward global

collaboration and agreement. The congress produced

several key resolutions, including bans on various

forms of animal exploitation, proposals for the

establishment of an international association, and the

formulation of consistent animal welfare standards

across countries. These resolutions not only reflected

a moral commitment but also demonstrated practical

efforts to build a more humane foundation for

international animal protection policies. The congress

succeeded in creating a global network and raising

public awareness of animal rights, which has

continued to grow and influence animal protection

policies to this day.

ICHELS 2024 - The International Conference on Humanities Education, Law, and Social Science

The implications of this research suggest that the

impact of the 1950 congress remains relevant and

continues to evolve in modern policy and the global

animal protection movement. The resolutions

embodied ethical values that underlie animal

protection policies in various countries, inspiring the

establishment of international associations that

support animal welfare regulations and foster inter-

country solidarity. This research also offers insights

for policymakers on the importance of public support

and societal awareness in implementing animal

protection policies effectively. Additionally, this

study can serve as a reference for further research on

the relationship between social movements and the

formation of international policies, showing how

ethical values and animal welfare issues can be

aligned in policies with a broad impact.

This study has several limitations. First, the

primary data used is derived from historical

newspaper sources and archives, limiting the scope of

data to the media perspectives of that period. Second,

the lack of direct interviews or participant records

from the congress restricts a deeper understanding of

certain decisions and internal dynamics of the

congress. Furthermore, this research focuses only on

the immediate impact of the 1950 congress

resolutions without a comprehensive longitudinal

analysis of animal protection policy changes across

countries post-congress. Further studies with a

broader approach and a more diverse range of data

sources would help to supplement these findings and

strengthen the analysis of the congress's long-term

contributions to the global animal protection

movement.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The support from the Faculty of Social and Political

Sciences at Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia,

has been the primary factor in preparing this

publication manuscript. Therefore, this manuscript is

fully submitted to that institution as the main sponsor.

REFERENCES

Boomgaard, P. (1994). Death to the tiger! The development

of tiger and leopard rituals in Java, 1605–1906. South

East Asia Research, 2(2), 141-175.

Boomgaard, P. (1998). Hunting and trapping in the

Indonesian archipelago, 1500–1950. In Paper

Landscapes (pp. 185-213). Brill.

Boomgaard, P. (1999). Oriental nature, its friends and its

enemies: Conservation of nature in late-colonial

Indonesia, 1889-1949. Environment and history, 5(3),

257-292.

Boomgaard, P. (2004). The age of the buffalo and the dawn

of the cattle era in Indonesia, 1500–1850. In

Smallholders and Stockbreeders (pp. 257-282). Brill.

Bronner, S. (2008). Killing tradition: Inside hunting and

animal rights controversies. University Press of

Kentucky.

Clason, A. T. (1967). Animal and man in Holland's past. An

investigation of the animal world surrounding man in

prehistoric and early historical times in the provinces of

North and South Holland. Palaeohistoria, 1-247.

Francione, G. L. (2008). Animals as persons: Essays on the

abolition of animal exploitation. Columbia University

Press.

MacKenzie, J. M. (2017). The nineteenth-century hunting

world. In The Empire of Nature (pp. 25-53).

Manchester University Press.

Regan, T. (2016). The case for animal rights. In The animal

ethics reader (pp. 45-51). Routledge.

Renier, G. J. (2016). History: Its purpose and method.

Routledge.

Reporter. (1927, 21 September). Progress of Animal

Protection: Work of International Congress. Townsville

Daily Bulletin, 7.

Reporter. (1929, 30 July). Animal Protection: Urged Upon

Nations of World. The Advertiser, 23.

Reporter. (1930, 26 Januari). Protection of Animal. Sunday

Mail, 8.

Reporter. (1950a, 30 August). Anesthesie wordt

aanbevolen bij het slachten van dieren. The Windsor

Daily Star

Reporter. (1950b, 31 August). Animal Rights Charter:

Aanbevelingen Op De Bijeenkomst in The Hague. The

Indian Express

Reporter. (1950c, 13 September). Dave Boon zegt. The

Washington Reporter

Reporter. (1950d, 1 September). Dierencongres roept op tot

meer vriendelijkheid voor huisdieren. The Spokesman-

Review

Reporter. (1950e, 30 September). DIERENRECHTENBIL.

The Calgary Herald

Reporter. (1950f, 29 August). Eisen voor

dierenbescherming: Redelijk En Moraal Verantwoord

Bestaan Voor Alle Dieren, Congres in Scheveningen.

De Noord-Ooster.

Reporter. (1950g, 4 September). Hoeveel wilde gebieden?

Twee decennia na de Wilderness Act van 1964 beslist

het Congres. The Dispatch.

Wereldcongres Voor Dierenbescherming 1950: Spirit and Legacy on Global Animal Protection Movement

Reporter. (1950h, 28 September). Laat ook honden binnen.

Toledo Blade

Reporter. (1950i, 30 August). Wereldcongres op

Dierenbeschermingsdag twee. Nieuwsblad van het

Noorden.

Reporter. (1950j, 13 May). Wereldcongres over

Dierenbescherming in Scheveningen. Deventer

dagblad.

Reporter. (1950k, 29 August). Wereldcongres voor de

bescherming van dieren Streeft naar de internationale

dierenwetgeving. Nieuwe Apeldoornsche courant.

Reporter. (1950l, 14 February). Wereldcongres voor

Dierenbescherming 1950. Eindhovensch dagblad.

Reporter. (1958, 19 May). Dierenrechtenactivisten

ontmoeten elkaar in Zürich. Het Binnenhof.

Reporter. (1978, 27 September). Wereldcongres over

dierenbescherming in Berlijn. Algemeen Dagblad.

Singer, P. (2004). Animal liberation. In Ethics:

Contemporary Readings (pp. 284-292). Routledge.

Tarrow, S. (2022). Power in movement. Cambridge

university press.

Thoenes, E., Blacquiere, T., & Calis, J. (2009). To bee or

not to bee (interview met T. Blacquière & J. Calis).

Wageningen Update, 2009(2/09), 4-7.

Tilly, C., & Wood, L. J. (2015). Social Movements, 1768-

2012. Routledge.

ICHELS 2024 - The International Conference on Humanities Education, Law, and Social Science