Second, we’d like to share our plans and goals for 2018, and invite you to join us in working towards a world where animals are represented and protected on an international level and in all countries.

Here are some of the things we’re setting out to accomplish in 2018:

Information, Expertise and Best Practice Resources:

• A new resource on the international policy environment. This will have information on numerous international policymaking bodies and suggestions for advocacy at each.
• A guidance document for animal protection organizations on engaging the 2018 High Level Political Forum at the United Nations.
• A guidance document on engaging the United Nations Environment Assembly (which will take place March 2019).
• A new online resource to support advocacy for including humane education in curriculums.
• Continued dissemination of the Model Animal Welfare Act and translation into Spanish.
• To provide information and expertise to animal protection organizations through conferences, such as the recent Minding Animals Conference, which took place in Mexico City from January 17 to 24.
• Additions to the existing resource on Best Practice on Animal Welfare in Development.
• Continued improvement and management of the International Directory of Animal Protection Organizations and the Animal Protection Event Calendar.

Animal Protection Communication, Collaboration and Coalitions/Alliances:

• An international policy roadmap, to help members of our International Policy Forum coordinate effective advocacy strategies.
• Continued leadership in the Animal Issues Thematic Cluster, a coalition of animal protection organizations engaging the Sustainable Development Agenda at the United Nations.
• Maximization of animal protection activity in the United Nations Major Groups and Other Stakeholders system (the structure which facilitates civil society advocacy at the United Nations).
• Continued work in the International Coalition for Animal Welfare, which coordinates animal protection advocacy at the World Organisation for Animal Health.
• Continued work supporting the development and work of other coalitions and alliances, including the Species Survival Network and Eurogroup for Animals.

Animal Welfare Policy

• Continue our work with the World Bank to host expert workshops on specific aspects of animal welfare in agricultural development (two already planned as pilots, with more workshops to take place subsequently).
• We will provide a voice for animals at the 2018 High Level Political Forum at the United Nations, ensuring that full advantage is taken of all preparatory opportunities.
• Make preparations for effective advocacy and representation of animals at the next UN Environment Assembly in 2019.
• To explore and take action on opportunities at UN-related organizations and conventions (such as the Convention on Biodiversity and the Committee on Food Security within the Food and Agriculture Organization).

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Cheers to 2018!