Norman Reddus, star of The Walking Dead, has joined Cruelty Free International to support the organization’s work to ban animal tests for cosmetics in the U.S. and around the world.

“We are delighted that Norman has joined our mission to end cosmetic tests on animals worldwide. Norman is using his voice on behalf of the countless animals who suffer in laboratories in cruel and outdated tests for consumer products,” said Michelle Thew, chief executive, Cruelty Free International.

Thew continued, “It is vitally important that the U.S. moves with the times and protects animals from unnecessary tests by embracing modern, non-animal science.”

In March 2013, a significant historical milestone was reached, after 20 years of campaigning by Cruelty Free International’s founding organization, the BUAV – animal tests were banned for new cosmetics sold in all 28 countries in the European Union including the UK, Germany, Spain, Italy and France. (This also brought about new labeling requirements.)

Countries around the world are following suit – Israel has a ban on animal tests for cosmetics and India is likely to set down rulesbanning this cruel practice in the near future.

But, over 80% of countries around the world still allow animal tests for cosmetics, including the U.S., Australia, Korea and Japan. Some countries, including China, actually require animal tests before products can be sold there.

Cruelty Free International is the only organization campaigning for a global ban on animal testing for cosmetics. It works with governments, regulators, companies and partner organizations worldwide and has placed the issue of animal testing on the agenda of many governments for the very first time as part of its global work to end product tests on animals.

With offices in the UK, the USA and Singapore, Cruelty Free International is applying its determination and vision to repeat its success in Europe worldwide.