International

It now seems that the ban on testing of cosmetics on animals is threatened with postponement. The SP in the European Parliament, together with the two centre-left Dutch parties Green Left and Labour, are working with Dutch anti-animal testing group Proefdiervrij (Lab Animal-Free) and have asked the European Commission to confirm that it will not give in to pressure from the cosmetic industry. The industry is conducting a vigorous campaign in favour of delay.

SP Euro-MP Dennis de Jong says, 'It is unprecedented that the Commission is considering delaying the ban. The more than eight thousand ingredients already tested offer sufficient possibilities to make cosmetics which are attractive, safe and, moreover, not tested on animals.’
Green Left MEP Bas Eickhout agrees. ‘The testing of cosmetics on animals is really outmoded. The European Commission must stick to its guns: the cosmetics industry would be better investing its money in animal test-free research than in a lobby to be allowed to smear eye shadow on monkeys.’

'An end to animal testing is an end to animal testing,’ says Labour Euro-MP Judith Merkies. ‘That there’s no alternative can no longer be used as an excuse. A line must be drawn through all of these latest exceptions. Innovation in alternative methods of testing is what is needed.’

Since 2009 it has been forbidden throughout the EU to test cosmetics or their ingredients on animals, or to import animal-tested cosmetics. An exception was introduced at the same time, however, allowing animal testing where no alternative as yet existed, and another exception for products with implications for health, such as those for people with very sensitive skin. These exceptions expire next year.

Proefdiervrij Director Marja Zuidgeest explains that ‘many of the ingredients used in cosmetics are also used in other products. Because of this, testing on animals is allowed for these ingredients, as they come under other legislation. That’s why it’s now important that we call on the European Commission to introduce an undiluted ban from 2013 and encourage research into alternatives.’