EU bans unsanitary slaughter of animals, Israeli ambassador calls decision an attack on Jewish lifestyle

 

EU bans unsanitary slaughter of animals

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled in favor of banning animals in Belgium before they are going to be slaughtered and halal, and has rejected objections from religious groups. EU Supreme Court upholds Belgian law on animal rights.

 

According to Reuters, Israel's ambassador to Belgium responded by calling it a "disastrous decision and a blow to Jewish life in Europe."  Reacting to the decision, the head of the European Conference of Monks said that the Jewish community throughout Europe would feel the decision.

 

On the other hand, many Muslim groups have challenged the legislation several times before it was passed and enacted in January 2019. According to Reuters, the decision of the European Court of Justice has paved the way for similar sanctions to be imposed on other European countries as well.

 

It is to be noted that under the slaughter requirements of Muslims or Jews, the veins of animals are cut in one fell swoop while the animal is fully conscious. According to European law, animals must be sterilized before being slaughtered so that they do not feel any pressure or discomfort. The act of stunning or anesthetizing an animal before slaughtering it is called stunning.

 

In northern Belgium, the Flanders government hailed Thursday's decision, while Animal Welfare Minister Ben Waits said "today we are writing history." "This is a great day and the result of 25 years of struggle," said Global Action, a Belgian organization working for animal welfare.

 

The decision also comes as a surprise as it contradicts the court's Advocate General's recommendation in September to repeal the Flemish law, which he said allows for stricter animal welfare laws. It may be when it does not violate 'basic' religious traditions.

 

EU court says all member states need to compromise on both animal welfare and freedom of religion and that the EU does not bar member states from dehumanizing animals as long as they respect fundamental rights. The court acknowledged that such restrictions limit the rights of Muslims and Jews, but did not ban traditional slaughter, and said Belgium's law "interferes with freedom of expression" in the EU. The goal of promoting well-being has been achieved.

 

In the decision it is also states that Belgium's parliament has relied on scientific evidence to show that it is a wonderful way to reduce animal suffering, and that the law is in line with animal welfare and freedom of religion. Allows 'proper balance'.

Red More: