Scientific Advocacy in Dispute: Dialogue on The Dublin Declaration

9 October 2025 (10-11 CET) 

Online

The Dublin Declaration of Scientists on the Societal Role of Livestock has sparked fierce debate in European and global agriculture, especially as the livestock industry and its critics vie to shape the future of food systems. Presented by leading experts from both sides, this webinar discusses the credibility and impact of the Declaration on science, policy, and the livestock sector. 

Dr. Irina Herzon, whose published critique(s) directly challenge the Declaration, argues that it exemplifies flawed scientific advocacy, one that draws on selective evidence, narrow expertise, and close industry ties, potentially undermining transparency and the integrity of scientific contributions to policy.  

Prof. Frédéric Leroy, a co-author of the Declaration, will share the rationale behind the creation of the Declaration and defend the need for a more nuanced and inclusive debate on the role of livestock. 

Key Themes: 

  • What the Dublin Declaration asserts about livestock, nutrition, and sustainability 
  • Concerns about selectivity and polarization 
  • The importance of open, multidisciplinary discussion 
  • Science as advocacy 


Who Should Attend
 

Agriculture and food policy professionals, scientists, sustainability practitioners, students, and interested members of the public. 

Register now to join this open platform for conflicting perspectives—a rare chance to engage with experts at the heart of the livestock and science-policy debate. 

Speakers

Professor of Food Science and (Bio)Technology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel; co-author of the Dublin Declaration 

Researcher and Senior Lecturer at University of Helsinki; lead author of a high-profile critique of the Declaration’s evidence and advocacy

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