ZDF, a public German television broadcaster, has released the documentary 37°: Geheimsache Tierversuche (meaning “Secret Animal Testing”), by reporter Manfred Karremann, which creates the misleading impression that the German research community is secretive about its work with animals. 

Some of its most graphic footage has been previously shared by animal-activism organisations, including from outside of Germany. In testimonials, toxicologists share how specific non-animal tests in toxicology have replaced the use of animals and a scientific adviser from PETA presents new approach methodologies (NAMs), such as organ-on-chip models, as more “human-relevant” alternatives to many animal experiments. A Member of the German parliament argues for a lack of transparency.  

The documentary also counts on the participation of Stefan Schlatt, a researcher from the University of Münster who uses macaques, marmosets and mice to study male infertility. Yet his openness was presented as exceptional and portrayed as a sign of lack of transparency, as he was the only researcher who agreed to participate and receive the film crew. 

Non-human primate researcher Esperanza Domingo Gil, from the University of Bremen, told EARA that “these claims are unfounded and actively spread disinformation”. Besides managing EARA’s Germany X account on matters related to animal research, she often discusses her research openly, including in EARA initiatives such as the Transparency Thursdayand BOARD — Be Open About Animal Research Day.   

In a statement, Tierversuche verstehen (TVV), a German organisation dedicated to promoting understanding of animal research, also objected to the accusation of secrecy. Their statement highlights initiatives like the German Transparency Agreement, with more than 130 signatories committing to transparency about animal research, and highlights the oversight of public authorities over animal research and access to data on authorised research projects with animals. Moreover, they include a list of films produced by research institutions and independent journalists regarding animal research in Germany, such as the behind-the-scenes video at EARA member Hannover Medical School (MHH) by the YouTube channel Tomatolix, which has reached 878,000 views to date, undoubtedly demonstrating that it is not conducted in secrecy.