In a landmark moment for animal rights advocacy, Shalin G. Gala, Vice President of PETA’s Laboratory Investigations Department, took center stage at Pakistan’s inaugural International Animal and Environmental Rights Conference in 2025. This historic event, which gathered over 65 prominent global leaders working towards animal welfare, provided a platform to discuss strategic reforms and innovative solutions for improving the lives of animals in Pakistan.
As a key speaker, Gala used the occasion to highlight PETA’s global efforts to eliminate cruel and ineffective animal testing. Through his presentation, he showcased PETA’s ongoing commitment to replacing outdated, animal-based experiments with modern, human-relevant science that not only saves animals’ lives but also leads to more reliable scientific results. This message resonated deeply with the conference attendees, many of whom are working on similar reforms within Pakistan.
Strategic Animal Reforms in Pakistan
Gala’s presentation delved into the significant progress PETA has made in advocating for animal rights in Pakistan. He discussed various strategic reforms that have already been implemented, such as pushing for the adoption of non-animal testing methods, highlighting the importance of public awareness campaigns, and collaborating with local organizations to strengthen animal protection laws.
“These efforts are pivotal not only for the well-being of animals but also for the scientific advancement of the country,” Gala remarked. “We are working toward a future where animals no longer suffer for outdated and unreliable testing methods.”
A Call to Action: Research Modernization
In addition to discussing PETA’s work in Pakistan, Gala emphasized the importance of modernizing research practices globally. He urged those in attendance to support initiatives like the Research Modernization NOW petition in the United States, which calls for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to prioritize non-animal research methodologies. The petition seeks to push Congress to introduce legislation mandating that the NIH focuses on progressive, cruelty-free scientific methods that do not involve animal testing.
For those residing in the U.S., Gala urged action, inviting individuals to sign the petition to demand Research Modernization NOW. This advocacy aligns with PETA’s global push for more humane and effective science.
Oreo Campaign: Urging Companies to End Animal Testing
In another significant call to action, Gala highlighted PETA’s campaign urging Mondelez International, the maker of Oreo cookies, to end animal testing. PETA has been advocating for years to persuade the company to abandon cruel testing methods, which are still used in some of its production processes. Gala urged the public to take action by joining the campaign and demanding that Oreo stop torturing animals for the sake of their products.
A Vision for the Future
Gala concluded his presentation with a hopeful vision for the future of animal rights in Pakistan and beyond. “By fostering collaboration among global leaders and continuing to advocate for ethical, human-relevant science, we can ensure a better and kinder future for animals everywhere,” he said.
The International Animal and Environmental Rights Conference 2025 served as an important milestone in the global movement to improve animal welfare, and Gala’s presentation showcased PETA’s pivotal role in driving this change. The collaboration between international animal rights organizations, local advocates, and government bodies will be crucial in shaping a future where animals no longer suffer in the name of science.
As Gala and PETA continue their tireless work for animals worldwide, it is clear that their efforts are making a significant impact on the fight for a cruelty-free future.
Get Involved
For those inspired by PETA’s mission and Gala’s presentation, there are multiple ways to make a difference. You can sign the petition for Research Modernization NOW in the U.S., take action to help end animal testing for Oreo cookies, and support PETA’s ongoing campaigns for animal rights worldwide.
Together, we can create a world where animals are no longer exploited for research or products and where humane, effective alternatives are the standard.
If you reside in the U.S., please sign our petition urging Congress to introduce legislation enacting Research Modernization NOW, which would mandate that NIH focus on modern, non-animal research methods: Demand Research Modernization NOW in the U.S.
No matter where you live, please urge the manufacturer of Oreo cookies to stop testing on animals: Take Action to Help Animals Tortured for Oreos