In the equestrian world, the concept of a “social licence to operate” (SLO) is gaining increased attention. While equestrian professionals have traditionally been governed by formal regulations and industry standards, social expectations are now playing a significant role in how the public views equestrian practices. As public awareness of animal welfare and ethical treatment grows, equestrian professionals must align their practices with societal values to maintain their social licence.
Social licence to operate (SLO) refers to the informal, non-regulatory approval granted by the public and stakeholders for an individual or organization to operate. Unlike legal licences or certifications, SLO is based on public perception, trust, and the ethical reputation of an industry or profession. For equestrian professionals, this means gaining the approval of society by demonstrating responsible practices in areas such as animal welfare, safety, and environmental impact. In the equestrian world, social licence can be influenced by how the general public perceives the treatment of horses, training methods, competition practices, and overall ethical standards. Maintaining this social licence requires transparency, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to continual improvement in the care and management of horses. If the public perceives that the welfare of horses is being compromised, this social licence can be revoked, leading to increased scrutiny, loss of reputation, and even formal restrictions or bans. The concept of social licence is dynamic and can change over time as societal values evolve.
Practices that were once accepted may come under scrutiny as public awareness of animal welfare issues grows. As an equestrian professional, staying informed about changing public expectations and aligning your practices with these values is essential for maintaining a positive relationship with the community and industry stakeholders.
Public perception plays a key role in shaping the social licence of equestrian professionals. With the rise of social media and increased access to information, the general public is more aware than ever of animal welfare issues and ethical concerns in various industries, including equestrian sports. Videos and reports of unethical training methods, poor living conditions, or injuries sustained during competitions can quickly go viral, leading to widespread public backlash. Equestrian professionals must be mindful of how their practices are perceived by both the equestrian community and the general public. Practices that seem routine or acceptable within the industry, that have been normalized are coming up for review and are being viewed negatively. As a result, it is essential for professionals to prioritize transparency, demonstrate a commitment to ethical care, be open to change and learning and also educate the public about their practices. A positive public perception not only helps maintain a social licence but also strengthens the overall reputation of the equestrian industry. It fosters trust between professionals, stakeholders, and the public, leading to greater support for equestrian activities and events. On the other hand, failure to address public concerns can lead to a loss of trust and the erosion of the industry’s social licence to operate.
As society becomes more focused on animal rights and welfare, the expectations placed on equestrian professionals are evolving. What may have been considered acceptable or standard practice in the past is now being re-examined through the lens of ethics and welfare. Professionals in the equestrian industry need to adapt to these changing expectations. This shift in expectations is not limited to practices within competition but also extends to daily horse care, training methods, and even environmental impact. For example, the use of harsh training aids or techniques that prioritize performance over welfare can lead to negative public perception. In contrast, practices that emphasize the physical and mental well being of horses, such as positive reinforcement training, humane handling, and proper living conditions, are more likely to gain public approval. Equestrian professionals are increasingly expected to engage with the community, demonstrate accountability, and take proactive steps to address concerns. This includes educating clients, spectators, and the public about responsible horse care, transparent communication about training methods, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. By aligning their practices with modern societal values, equestrian professionals can maintain their social licence and contribute to the positive evolution of the industry.
At the heart of maintaining a social licence to operate is a genuine commitment to horse welfare. The public expects equestrian professionals to prioritize the well being of their horses above all else. This includes providing adequate nutrition, shelter, and healthcare, as well as ensuring that horses are mentally stimulated and not subjected to unnecessary stress or harm. Professionals who demonstrate a dedication to horse welfare are more likely to earn and maintain public trust. Horse welfare also extends to training and competition practices. The use of positive, humane training methods that promote the horse’s well being is crucial for maintaining public approval. Equestrian professionals should avoid outdated or harmful practices that could be perceived as abusive or neglectful. Additionally, recognizing when a horse is unfit for work or competition and allowing them the necessary rest or recovery time is a key aspect of responsible care. Educating the public and stakeholders about the steps you take to ensure horse welfare can also help maintain your social licence. Whether through social media, public events, or client communication, transparency about your practices builds trust and demonstrates your commitment to the highest standards of care.
Training and competition practices are often where public scrutiny is most intense. To maintain a social licence, equestrian professionals must ensure that their methods align with ethical standards and avoid causing unnecessary harm or stress to horses. This includes using gentle, positive reinforcement training techniques, providing adequate rest periods, and avoiding excessive or harsh discipline. In competition, professionals should ensure that their horses are physically fit and ready to perform, avoiding the temptation to push them beyond their limits for the sake of winning. The use of ethical equipment and tack is also critical in preventing injury or discomfort. In addition, transparent communication about how horses are cared for and trained before and after competitions helps build public trust. Professional organizations and governing bodies in equestrian sports are also implementing more stringent rules and guidelines to ensure ethical practices in training and competition. By adhering to these regulations and exceeding minimum standards, equestrian professionals can demonstrate their commitment to ethical treatment.
Building a positive relationship with the public involves proactive engagement with the community. Equestrian professionals who foster open communication, participate in public events, and provide educational opportunities are more likely to maintain public trust. Hosting workshops, clinics, or open days at your facility can help demystify the world of equestrianism and show the public firsthand how horses are cared for and trained. Transparency and open dialogue with clients, spectators, and the general public help address concerns before they escalate. Listening to feedback and being responsive to questions or criticisms demonstrate a willingness to improve and adapt to evolving expectations. Engaging in community outreach also fosters goodwill and can increase support for equestrian activities and events. In addition to direct engagement, equestrian professionals can use social media platforms to showcase their practices, provide educational content, and address public concerns. By actively participating in the conversation and demonstrating a commitment to ethical care, professionals can serve to educate and build a positive reputation within the industry.
Equestrian professionals must be open and honest about their practices, from how horses are trained and cared for to how they handle incidents or accidents. Being transparent about your decision-making processes and showing accountability when mistakes are made fosters trust and credibility. When incidents do occur, such as a horse becoming injured during competition, it is important to communicate openly with stakeholders and the public. Explain the situation, the steps being taken to address it, and how similar incidents will be prevented in the future. Taking responsibility and demonstrating a commitment to improvement is key to maintaining public confidence in your ability to operate ethically. Documenting and sharing best practices, health protocols, and training methods can further enhance transparency. This level of openness shows that you have nothing to hide and are willing to operate in a way that aligns with both industry standards and societal values.
Maintaining a social licence to operate requires continuous effort and adaptation. As societal values and expectations evolve, equestrian professionals must be willing to adapt their practices to meet new ethical and welfare standards. Staying informed about emerging trends in animal welfare, training techniques, and environmental responsibility ensures that your practices remain aligned with public expectations. Continuous learning and professional development are essential for staying ahead of the curve. Attending industry conferences, participating in workshops, and engaging with equine welfare organizations can help you stay informed about the latest best practices. Being proactive about change not only helps maintain your social licence but also contributes to the ongoing improvement of the equestrian industry as a whole. Being adaptable and responsive to change shows a commitment to doing what is best for horses and the environment, reinforcing your position as a responsible equestrian professional. By embracing innovation and aligning with societal values, you can ensure the long-term sustainability of your career and the equestrian industry as a whole.
The concept of a social licence to operate is becoming increasingly important for equestrian professionals. By prioritizing horse welfare, adhering to ethical training and competition practices, and demonstrating environmental responsibility, professionals can maintain public trust and support. Engaging with the community, being transparent, and adapting to evolving expectations are essential for preserving a positive reputation and ensuring the long-term success of the equestrian industry. With a strong social licence, equestrian professionals can continue to thrive while contributing to the well being of horses and the broader community.
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