As experiments on animals continue to be the subject of ethical debates around the world, Switzerland held an important referendum the other day. The referendum, which was held with the support of animal rights defenders, left the final word to the public on whether to ban animal testing in the country.
The Swiss people who participated in the referendum, on the other hand, offered an answer that animal rights activists would not expect. According to the survey conducted by the country’s state broadcaster, Swiss Radio and Television, 79% of those who voted in the referendum voted ‘No’. In other words, 79% of the public supported the experiments on animals.
“New drugs require animal experiments”
Rene Buholzer, CEO of biopharmaceutical drug manufacturer Interpherma Group, also made a statement about the results of the referendum. . Buholzer said the results show that the Swiss public recognize the role of research in human health and well-being. The outcome of the referendum will have a significant impact on all pharmaceutical companies headquartered in Switzerland.
Pharmaceutical giants Roche and Novartis previously said about the referendum that animal experiments are still necessary to develop new drugs. In addition, those who oppose the ban also announced that large companies can leave the country once this ban comes into effect.
According to the announced data, around 500 thousand animals are killed in laboratories in Switzerland every year.
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