Helping to shape a roadmap that could redefine the very foundation of how we assess medicine safety is daunting, while at the same time exciting. Today, with EFPIA’s latest recommendations on phasing out animal testing for chemical safety assessments, the vision feels closer than ever.

The past few years have marked a transformative shift in how we think about science, ethics, and innovation. From societal voices calling for more human-relevant models to regulatory conversations becoming more open to change, it’s clear: we are no longer debating whether we should reduce animal testing—but how we make it happen responsibly, strategically, and collaboratively.

At EFPIA, our work is deeply rooted in the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement), but we know it’s not enough to recite principles. Change demands action. That’s why this report does something different. It offers a practical framework— including the 3-Basket Approach—not just to imagine a world beyond animal testing, but to build it step by step.

In this report, we propose a bold yet pragmatic classification:

• Basket 1 covers tests that can be stopped now—outdated, redundant, and no longer scientifically necessary.
• Basket 2 includes those in progress—where innovation is underway, but more validation is needed.
• Basket 3 acknowledges the complex—where science hasn't caught up yet, but moonshot research might change that.

This isn’t about quick wins. It’s about investing in real solutions: organ-on-chip technology, AI-driven toxicology, and collaborative global research. The future of safety science will be smarter, faster, and—most importantly—more ethical.

The European Commission’s roadmap to phase out animals for chemical safety testing is on the horizon. Over the coming days, in Helsinki at the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), all stakeholders are gathering together to hear outcomes of various engagements led by the European Commission and we will discuss a first draft of the roadmap at the 3rd Commission workshop.

We must be honest about the challenges ahead: regulatory fragmentation, data silos, intellectual property fears, and the hesitancy that comes with pioneering new approaches. These are real barriers. Our report looks at offering solutions: safe harbours for data sharing, incentives for early adopters, and calls for global regulatory harmonisation.

What gives me hope is the energy I see every day—from scientists creating microphysiological systems that mimic human biology better than ever before, to regulators engaging openly in workshops, and NGOs challenging us to go further, faster.

To my colleagues across industry, academia, agencies, and civil society: this roadmap is ours to shape together. Let’s build the future now. EFPIA and our members are ready to walk that path—with transparency, responsibility, and urgency.

Let’s make this moment count.