A05 - PLENARY: Planning for the Unknown: Organizational Strategies to Protect Animal Care and Use Programs from Emerging External Challenges

Animal care and use programs have traditionally designed emergency response plans and business continuity measures to anticipate and mitigate risks associated with natural disasters, animal rights activism, and, more recently, global public health emergencies. These efforts have established a strong foundation for maintaining program continuity and safeguarding animal welfare. However, recent shifts in the financial, political, and social landscapes have introduced increasingly complex challenges that require novel response strategies. Changes in government policies are compelling institutions to reassess program readiness and long-term sustainability, reshaping the animal research enterprise.
In the United States, significant funding reductions, work stoppages, and the revocation of research grants are forcing programs to exhibit out of the box thinking to identify potential problems like never before.
This session will provide an overview of the current landscape and information on how institutions are preparing for sharp funding reductions, potential policy and regulatory changes, committee member resignations, infrastructure upheaval and media relations challenges.