Why do we advocate for the rights of animals?*

*For brevity and reader-friendliness, we refer to "non-human animals" as "animals" on this website.

Animetrics advocates for the rights of animals.  From an ethical standpoint, animals are not commodities but sentient beings, capable of feeling and experiencing suffering. They possess intrinsic value and are entitled to ethical consideration. For us, treating animals with respect and compassion is a non-negotiable moral imperative. (1)

Our commitment to animal rights also aligns with our broader understanding of social justice.  Animal injustice is closely linked to other forms of oppression, including social, environmental, and economic inequalities. (2) For instance, workers in slaughterhouses, often from marginalized backgrounds, endure poor pay, extended working hours, and unsafe conditions. Similarly, employees in tanneries are often at increased risk of cancer, and forced labor and human trafficking are common in the fisheries industry. Factory farming also disproportionately impacts marginalized communities, often placing low-income populations, many of whom are people of color, in close proximity to the harmful environmental effects of these industries, such as air and water pollution. This environmental injustice further deepens disparities in health and well-being, exacerbating poverty and social inequities. (3)

Furthermore, the exploitation of animals significantly contributes to environmental degradation, intensifying climate change, destroying ecosystems, depleting vital resources, and causing habitat destruction. (4) It also poses risks to human and animal welfare through the spread of zoonotic diseases. (5)

The urgency of animal justice arises from our ethical duty to recognize animals' inherent worth and the undeniable interdependence of our well-being with theirs. Creating a world characterized by compassion, equity, and justice demands addressing animal, environmental, and social injustices simultaneously.

Why is our expertise in economics and econometrics important for effective animal advocacy?

To maximize our impact in animal advocacy, making well-informed and evidence based decisions is critical.

Our background in economics and econometrics enables us to make informed decisions based on data, efficiently allocate the limited resources, and measure impact accurately.

Additionally, our expertise empowers us to utilize causal inference techniques. Understanding causality is important because it allows us to identify the true impact of advocacy interventions, differentiating between causation and correlation. For example, we need to understand whether offering more vegan options at restaurants is actually causing more people to choose these meals, or if people are already shifting towards plant-based eating due to a trend. These methods are vital for assessing advocacy effectiveness, evaluating the impact of various interventions, and understanding attitudes towards animal welfare.

In addition, we can analyze the economic impacts of various animal advocacy initiatives. This includes the costs and benefits of different approaches, evaluating the financial viability of alternative practices, and understanding economic incentives driving certain behaviors related to animal use. Using advanced statistical and quantitative methodologies, we can pinpoint key factors driving success.

Overall, our expertise in economics and econometrics equips and complements advocacy organizations with essential tools to address urgent challenges effectively and gain support from policymakers, donors, and the public.

Why do we adopt an intersectional approach?

Adopting an intersectional approach is crucial for us because it strengthens and broadens the reach of animal advocacy. The intersections of race, class, gender, and more not only overlap with advocacy issues but also highlight the shared struggles and lessons between social justice movements. By working together and facilitating collaboration, we can develop comprehensive strategies that tackle both the rights of animals and broader social and environmental justice challenges.

A united voice can lead to more significant policy changes, shifts in societal thinking, and increased awareness. Furthermore, this approach helps us challenge stereotypes, gain credibility, and focus on long-lasting changes by addressing the root causes. In essence, our intersectional stance enables us to advocate more effectively and comprehensively.

Why do we have a specific regional prioritization? 

While our work extends globally, we prioritize addressing neglected areas in the animal protection movement, particularly in the Global South. These regions are home to a significant number of animals being farmed, yet they receive relatively little attention in terms of research and funding. Recognizing this gap, we believe that additional research in these areas holds great potential for making a meaningful impact. By focusing on and supporting these regions at no cost, we aim to bridge this gap and effect substantial change.

Moreover, we recognize the importance of diversity and inclusivity in effective advocacy. Regions that are traditionally underrepresented in animal advocacy bring their own set of challenges but also offer unexplored potential and fresh perspectives. (6) Focusing on them allows us to develop strategies that are culturally and contextually relevant, resonating with local communities. By targeting our efforts where they are most needed, we contribute to a richer, more comprehensive global dialogue on animal advocacy.