Finnish farmers’ perceptions of the roles of farmers, authorities and industry in farm animal welfare and of subsidy development

Abstract

Farmers’ perceptions of animal welfare policies are topical issues in the development of agricultural policy. Thematic analysis of twelve Finnish cattle and sheep farmers’ semi-structured interviews identified their perceptions of the roles of farmers, authorities, and industries in supporting animal welfare. The participating farmers perceived that the role of farmers’ included responsibility for farm conditions and farmers’ own welfare. Industry partners were identified as important actors in animal welfare and played a role in farm business economies and quality systems. Authorities’ roles were perceived to include providing financial support through subsidies and supervising compliance with regulations. Investment subsidies were considered effective in supporting animal welfare, whereas welfare payment was often seen as having limited additional impact. Farmers perceived the competence of both farmers and authorities as important for the successful implementation of animal welfare regulations. Steady income, reduced administrative burden, and clear rules co-created with farmers that support the goal of improving animal welfare emerged as subsidy development proposals. The findings highlight that improving animal welfare requires a policy approach in which subsidy design, regulatory practices, and administrative processes are evaluated through animal welfare impact assessment and aligned with farmers’ economic and practical realities.