Prof.dr. J.A.M. (Jan) Langermans

“Animal testing often constitutes an indispensable link in the chain that leads to answering important scientific questions concerning the health of humans and animals. Bringing animal testing to an immediate end would disrupt this chain, with the severity of this disruption naturally depending on the scientific or societal importance of the questions at hand. The scientific community is already actively engaged in developing and using animal-free methods. At the same time, it is realistic to acknowledge that, for the foreseeable future, animal testing will remain necessary to achieve certain knowledge goals. Therefore, it is essential that, alongside efforts aimed at the Replacement of animal testing, ongoing attention and investment are also directed towards its Refinement and Reduction. All three elements of the so-called 3Rs deserve structural attention and continuous development. The NCad can play a stimulating role in all these areas and actively engage in dialogue with all relevant stakeholders. Through the NCad, I wish to contribute to visible and meaningful improvements in animal welfare, while maintaining a continued focus on the interests of science.”