The successful Netherlands Open Week, this month, which has showcased openness and transparency in animal research, should be an example for other countries, said EARA executive director Kirk Leech.

In a series of events by signatories of the Dutch Transparency Agreement on Animal Testing public presentations, facility tours and media briefings highlighted the work of the biomedical sector to a wider audience.

· A public presentation by scientists at EARA member Radboud University and Radboud UMC, in Nijmegen, discussed their latest research, using animal models, and was followed by a tour of the animal labs and facilities. EARA executive director, Kirk Leech, also gave a presentation on Global changes in communicating animal research.

· EARA member Charles River Laboratories (Den Bosch) hosted Lab Conversations, an event where the company welcomed the local community, local companies, residents, politicians and the media, to discuss issues. An article on the visit then featured in a local paper.

· EARA member the Biomedical Primate Research Center, in Rijswijk, invited local journalists for a visit with a lecture, followed by a tour of the grounds. A newspaper article also appeared.

· Sportvisserij Nederland (Sport Fishing Netherlands), which carries out research on fish, also took part in Open Week and made a short film to show its work.

EARA executive director, Kirk Leech, said: “This is a great example of how to open up facilities to a wider audience and bring a greater understanding of the issues for the public. It would be great to see this type of initiative taken up by other Transparency Agreements across the world.”

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