This summer, Cruelty Free International was proud once again to sponsor and participate in the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics (OCAE) Summer School, one of the most respected gatherings of animal ethics scholarship and advocacy in the academic calendar.
This year’s theme, Ethical Strategies for Animal Protection, provided the perfect platform to showcase two areas of our expertise: building change through corporate partnerships and using evidence and transparency to drive policy reform. Through presentations and discussions, we shared practical examples of how these approaches are helping create lasting improvements for animals around the world.
The Power of Corporate Partnerships
Michelle Thew, our CEO and Honorary Fellow of the OCAE, and Grace Robinson, International Policy Manager, shared our unique approach to working with corporate partners. Our presentation, Moving the Corporate Dial: Challenges, Opportunities and Strategies, made the case that corporate actors occupy a pivotal but under-explored position in the movement to protect animals. Too often, companies are viewed solely as targets of advocacy, or organisations to be pressured into changing their behaviour. However, we explored how corporates can function as powerful partners in achieving change. As standard-setters, market shapers, and policy influencers, companies that commit to cruelty-free practices do not simply change their own operations – they shift industry norms, build the commercial evidence base that regulators need to legislate, and amplify the reach of civil society campaigns far beyond what we could achieve alone.
Using Evidence to Expose the Reality for Animals
Information is one of the most powerful tools available to animal advocates. David Thomas, our legal consultant, explored this theme in his presentation. His presentation outlined how Cruelty Free International uses evidence to underpin its campaigning, legal and lobbying work, specifically through undercover investigations and Freedom of Information requests. Both techniques help to bridge the gap between government and industry rhetoric and the reality for animals, and FOIA requests, here and around the world, compel governments and other public bodies such as universities to disclose data they would often prefer to keep hidden. Poor enforcement of existing regulations and the distance between policy commitments and the reality for animals are only found through rigorous information gathering. You cannot effectively lobby for change without knowing the truth of what you are lobbying to change.
Learning Through Collaboration
The Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics Summer School brings together academics, advocates and policymakers from around the world, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to those conversations.
Engaging with rigorous academic debate strengthens our work, challenges our thinking and helps ensure that our strategies remain evidence-based, innovative and effective. The exchange of ideas across disciplines and sectors is essential if we are to develop the ethical and practical solutions needed to improve the lives of animals.
Driving Change Around the World
Our participation in the Summer School reflects a broader commitment at Cruelty Free International to combine science, evidence, advocacy and partnership to achieve meaningful change for animals. Whether we are working with brands to accelerate the adoption of cruelty-free practices, uncovering evidence through investigations and Freedom of Information requests, influencing policymakers, or advancing the acceptance of non-animal testing methods, our goal remains the same: to create a world where animals are no longer made to suffer in the name of science, commerce or regulation.
Events such as the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics Summer School remind us that lasting progress depends on bringing together ideas, expertise and action. By sharing what we have learned, learning from others, and working collaboratively across sectors, we can continue to build momentum for change and deliver real, measurable impact for animals worldwide.
Lord Houghton Award 2026 Recipient: Reverend Professor Dr Andrew Linzey
During the Summer School we were honoured to present the 2026 Lord Houghton Award to the Reverend Professor Dr Andrew Linzey, Founder & Director of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to animal protection and animal ethics.
A theologian, author and campaigner, Professor Linzey has dedicated his career to advancing the moral and ethical consideration of animals. Through his pioneering work in academic research, public engagement and advocacy, he has helped shape thinking on animal welfare and inspired generations of campaigners, policymakers and scholars.
Presented in rotation by Cruelty Free International, Animal Defenders International, League Against Cruel Sports and OneKind, the Lord Houghton Award honours individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to improving the lives of animals.
Our CEO, Michelle Thew said: “The Reverend Professor Dr Andrew Linzey has been a transformative voice for animals for more than five decades. Through his scholarship, advocacy and unwavering commitment to animal protection, he has challenged perceptions, influenced policy and inspired countless people to work towards a more compassionate future. We are delighted to recognise his remarkable contribution with the Lord Houghton Award.”
Previous recipients
Over four decades, the award has been presented to a diverse range of individuals whose work has benefited animals. Recipients have included campaigners, politicians, researchers, philanthropists and public figures such as Ricky Gervais, Caroline Lucas MP, the late Linda McCartney, Vanessa-Mae and the late Sir David Amess MP.
Why is the award important?
Named in honour of Lord Houghton of Sowerby who was a British parliamentarian and committed advocate for animal welfare, the Lord Houghton Award highlights the power of individual action to drive positive change. It recognises those who have helped shape progress for animals and inspired others to support that work.
Published on 27 August, 2026.
