It's been two hard years. Being separated from those you love and with whom you share not only work, but also friendship, it has not been easy. For this reason, we want to start this welcome letter mentioning and thanking the entire Belgian team that did an incredible job last year to make the congress in Gent so interesting and wonderful despite the distance.

However, it is time to look to the future, meet again and share hugs, friendship and, of course, science. Because science is about sharing knowledge and experiences, and what can be better than doing so in a place as special as the island of Mallorca (Spain)?

Our main topic is a declaration of intent, “Non-suffering is welfare? – From five freedoms to five domains, moving on positive emotions”. We are preparing “the reunion congress” with passion, and we want to offer you a congress full of experiences and positive emotions inside and outside the conference rooms.

Inside rooms you will find four plenary talks where we can discuss the latest advances in animal welfare and behavioural medicine regarding positive emotions. In addition, we are also waiting for all your works, which are the essence and reason for being of our congress. Additionally, for all the residents of the EACWBM, we are also preparing a new concept of the “study days” where they can find practical sessions and where they will share experiences between the residents of both subspecialities.

Outside rooms, you will find a magical place to get lost and enjoy not only the beaches, but also the Sierra de Tramuntana (world heritage, https://www.serradetramuntana.net), culture and gastronomy. We know that this year all the social events will be particularly special, and that is why we are preparing them with great care, and we encourage all of you to come and share them together.

I cannot finish this letter without saying that we are waiting for you with great enthusiasm at this reunion congress in Palma (Mallorca).

Please do not hesitate to come and share the experience of improving the animals’ world, of improving the world.

Tomàs Camps and Xavier Manteca

Chair of the Organising Committee.