SOLEMN DECLARATION

OF THE CONFERENCE OF

EUROPEAN AUTOCHTHONOUS BREED ASSOCIATIONS

Adopted on 21 May 2026

At the First Inter-Association Conference on the

Conservation and Promotion of Autochthonous Breeds in the European Union

PREAMBLE

We, the representatives of the breeder associations of autochthonous species assembled at this conference, recognising our shared mission and our collective responsibility towards the heritage of European livestock diversity,

Conscious of the unique historical, ecological, and cultural significance of autochthonous breeds across the Member States of the European Union,

Recalling the commitments of the European Union to biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, and rural development as enshrined in the Common Agricultural Policy,

Acting in a spirit of solidarity, cooperation, and determination to strengthen the voice of autochthonous breed breeders at European, national, and regional levels,

Hereby adopt this Solemn Declaration:

PART I — THE IMPORTANCE OF AUTOCHTHONOUS BREEDS

The signatory associations affirm and recognise the following:

1. Conservation of Genomic Heritage. Autochthonous breeds represent millennia of natural and human-guided selection, carrying irreplaceable genetic material uniquely adapted to local climatic, ecological, and agricultural conditions. Their genomes constitute a living library of genetic diversity that, once lost, cannot be recovered. Preserving this heritage is a fundamental responsibility of European society as a whole.

2. Guardians of Traditional Cultural Landscapes. The presence of autochthonous breeds in their regions of origin is inseparable from the character of Europe's traditional rural landscapes. These breeds have shaped — and continue to shape — distinctive pastoral environments, terraced pastures, transhumance routes, and other heritage landscapes that define the cultural identity of rural communities across the continent.

3. Pillars of Biodiversity. Autochthonous breeds are integral components of traditional European agro-ecosystems. Their maintenance supports the coexistence of diverse plant species, invertebrates, birds, and other wildlife that depend on traditionally managed habitats.

4. Ecological Resilience and Climate Adaptation. Locally adapted autochthonous breeds demonstrate natural resistance to endemic diseases, tolerance of extreme weather conditions, and efficiency in converting local feed resources. These traits represent invaluable assets in the context of climate change, offering breeding solutions for the sustainable agriculture of the future.

5. Contribution to European food security and quality food production. Products derived from autochthonous breeds — whether meat, dairy, wool, or other outputs — are distinguished by unique organoleptic and nutritional characteristics rooted in genetic heritage and traditional production methods. These products underpin protected designations of origin, geographical indications, and traditional speciality guarantees, contributing to the rich diversity of European gastronomy.

6. Social and Economic Role in Rural Areas. The breeding of autochthonous species sustains the livelihoods of breeders, herders, and associated rural enterprises in areas where few viable economic alternatives exist. These activities anchor populations in remote and disadvantaged areas, countering rural depopulation and preserving social fabric.

PART II — COMMON GOALS AND COMMITMENTS

United by common purpose, the signatory associations commit to the following goals:

1. Establishment of a European Federation of Autochthonous Breed Associations. The foremost and most urgent goal of this conference is to establish a formal European-level federation uniting national and regional associations of autochthonous breed breeders. This federation shall serve as the representative body of autochthonous breed sectors before the institutions and agencies of the European Union, including the European Parliament, the Council, and the European Commission. The founding statutes, governance structure, and seat of this federation shall be determined at the earliest opportunity by a constituent assembly of member associations.

2. Advocacy for Dedicated EU Policy Instruments. We commit to jointly advocating, through the future European federation, for the reinforcement of dedicated policy instruments within the Common Agricultural Policy and related EU frameworks that recognise the specific challenges and contributions of autochthonous breed breeders, including targeted agro-environmental payments and investment aid.

3. Joint Research and Innovation. We commit to fostering collaboration among breeders, research institutions, and universities to advance scientific knowledge of the genetic, ecological, and productive characteristics of autochthonous breeds, and to develop innovative tools for their conservation and promotion.

5. Promotion and Market Development. We will collectively promote the value of products derived from autochthonous breeds to consumers within the European Union and in third countries, and advocate for stronger market recognition through EU quality schemes and public procurement policies favouring traditional, locally produced animal products.

6. Education, Awareness, and Intergenerational Transmission. We commit to supporting educational initiatives that transmit the knowledge, skills, and values associated with autochthonous breed husbandry to younger generations, ensuring the continuity of these living traditions.

7. International Cooperation. We will pursue dialogue and partnership with breeders' organisations, conservation bodies, and international organisations beyond European borders, contributing European expertise to global efforts for the conservation of domestic animal diversity.

CLOSING AFFIRMATION

We, the undersigned representatives, affirm our unwavering commitment to the goals and principles set forth in this Declaration. We call upon the institutions of the European Union, the governments of member states, and all stakeholders in the food, agriculture, and environment sectors to recognise the irreplaceable value of autochthonous breeds and to join us in ensuring their survival and flourishing for generations to come.

This Declaration shall enter into force upon its adoption by acclamation at the closing session of the Conference.