Five Freedoms (Brambell Committee, 1965)

• In the UK, concerns about intensive livestock farming practices led to the Brambell Committee Report (1965).
• The committee was established after public outcry from Ruth Harrison’s book Animal Machines (1964).
• The Brambell Committee introduced the idea that animals should have freedom to stand, lie down, turn around, groom, and stretch their limbs.
• This foundation evolved into the well-known Five Freedoms, which became the basis for modern animal welfare legislation and guidelines worldwide.

The Five Freedoms

a. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst

• Animals must have access to fresh water and a diet to maintain health and vigor.
• Example: Proper feeding schedules and availability of clean drinking water.

b. Freedom from Discomfort

• Provision of an appropriate environment including shelter and comfortable resting areas.
• Example: Well-ventilated housing with dry bedding.

c. Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease

• Prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment of illness or injury.
• Example: Regular veterinary care, vaccination, dehorning under anesthesia.

d. Freedom to Express Normal Behavior

• Sufficient space, proper facilities, and company of the animal’s own kind.
• Example: Group housing of social animals like cattle, avoiding overcrowding.

e. Freedom from Fear and Distress

• Ensuring conditions that avoid mental suffering.
• Example: Humane handling, low-stress transport, quiet environment.

Significance of the Five Freedoms

• Laid the foundation for animal welfare science and legislation globally.
• Adopted by the Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWC) in the UK and later internationally.
• Forms the core principles of welfare assessment frameworks such as Welfare Quality® protocols.