On Monday, star of stage and screen Alicia Silverstone, known for her support for animals, joined us at the annual UN High-Level Political Forum in New York to call on the world’s decision-makers to bring a global end to the testing of cosmetics on animals.

Speaking at our meeting with government and business representatives, Alicia Silverstone said: “I’m delighted to come together with Cruelty Free International to add my voice to the millions already calling for a global end to cosmetics animal testing. I urge the decision-makers gathered here from across the world to play their part in ending the testing of cosmetics on animals globally and for good.”

Our event was an opportunity for UN representatives, businesses and experts in non-animal alternatives to discuss the final steps needed to work together to end animal suffering for cosmetics worldwide and for good, while advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Agenda, a collection of goals set by the UN for the year 2030 to achieve a better, kinder and more sustainable future.

Michelle Thew, CEO of Cruelty Free International, said: “Cosmetics animal testing is cruel, old-fashioned, expensive and inefficient. Today, there are far more reliable and humane alternatives. Many cruelty-free companies use safe and effective cruelty-free ingredients in all their products. Across the globe, people want this cruel practice to end. It's fantastic that more countries are passing laws, but it's time to say goodbye to this outdated practice once and for all. Government, business and consumers working together is the best way to truly eliminate the suffering of animals for cosmetics.”

One of the key missing pieces is federal legislation against cosmetics animal testing in the USA, one of the world's very biggest cosmetics markets. If, like Alicia, you live in the US, please contact your local senators and representatives and encourage them to act now for a federal law to stop the use of animals in cosmetics testing.  You can also show your support in the US on social media by using the hashtag #SupportHumaneCosmetics to raise awareness.