Access to public information regarding laboratory animals: law and ethics

Abstract

Normative regulations concerning the use of animals in experiments and education raise numerous controversies and much social discussion. One of the aspects of implementing this form of social activity is the use of constitutional, subjective right of access to public information. Competent public administration authorities, and administrative courts encounter numerous difficulties related to requests for information. Attempts to assess, evaluate, and verify whether the applicants’ goals and intentions are consistent with the axiological premises of the statutory norms occur. The study reveals veterinary, legal, and moral aspects of requests for access to public information related to the use of animals in testing and teaching procedures. The controversial concept of abuse/misuse of the subjective right to access information is presented in a critical, multifaceted way. Obligations of professional ethics of veterinary surgeons concerning laboratory animals and public information related to them are discussed. The effectiveness and consistency of normative regulations are assessed. Interpretational postulates are indicated.