Abstract
<jats:p xml:lang="en">This review study aims to comprehensively examine the concept of animal welfare within a scientific, ethical and socioeconomic framework by focusing on welfare assessment criteria, species-specific welfare practices, and welfare approaches in Turkey and around the world. The core principles of animal welfare include maintaining biological functionality, enabling natural behaviors, and ensuring a life free from negative emotions. Behavioral, physiological, and reproductive indicators used to assess welfare levels are analyzed in detail. Furthermore, the study addresses the multidimensional impacts of animal welfare on public health, food safety, and sustainability, while discussing its ethical, social, and economic implications. National and international animal welfare policies and practices are compared to evaluate the current status and to propose strategies for improving welfare standards. This study aims to contribute to raising societal awareness and strengthening ethical responsibilities toward animals.</jats:p>