Multi-Stakeholder Consultation Q1 2019 - Background Document
This background document was meant as a starting point for the multi-stakeholder consultations in the first quarter of 2019. It outlines both the need for and the basic concept of the Beyond Animal Testing Index, including its vision, mission and goals. Additionally, a draft proposal was presented, listing Index-related topics subdivided into 5 Technical Areas. Each Area has its own Themes.
Abstract
Animal testing is a topic high on the political agenda. The Netherlands strives to become frontrunner in the international ‘Transition to Animal Free Innovations’. Public research organisations, including universities and research institutes for applied scientific science are in a position to considerably influence and contribute to this transition..
The Beyond Animal Testing Index aims to provide a transparent, objective and independent benchmark that brings the efforts and accomplishments of these organisations to light, offering organisations and their stakeholders more insight in the opportunities they have and the progression they make towards research beyond animal testing. Such an Index needs to be independent, transparent and utilised by a large number of stakeholders.
To accompish this we will consult stakeholders both individually as well as in multi-stakeholder consultations over the course of the following months (Q1 2019). This will ensure that all stakeholder needs and wishes are accounted for within the index.
At the moment, the proposed Beyond Animal Testing Index consists of five Technical Areas, being (1) General Managment and Stakeholder Engagement, (2) Research and Development, (3) Intellectual Property Management, (4) Capacity Building and (5) Investments and Grants. Each of these Area’s will be assessed through four Strategic Pillars, being (I) Commitments, (II) Transparency, (III) Performance and (IV) Innovation.
This entire document is a proposal and therefore up to discussion. It does not intent to be restrictive in any way and should be regarded as an approach to spark conversation.