A key initiative to support implementation of the WOAH Animal Welfare Standards has been the development of a Regional Animal Welfare Strategy for Asia, the Far East and Oceania (RAWS) in 2008. The aim of RAWS was to provide an overarching, agreed framework and guidance for countries in the region when implementing WOAH Standards, and to serve as the basis for the development of Action Plans. The RAWS has been endorsed through the WOAH Regional Commission for Asia, the Far East and Oceania and serves as a global model for other regions.