Dutch MPs Vote to Ban Religious Slaughter

The Dutch parliament approved a bill, 116 to 30, banning halal and kosher slaughter. The bill moves on to the Dutch Senate. Jewish and Muslim leaders contend the ban on slaughtering conscious animals limits religious freedom. The European Convention on Human Rights describes when limits can be applied: “Freedom to manifest one's religion or beliefs shall be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society in the interests of public safety, for the protection of public order, health or morals, or the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.” European nations have long required stunning animals before slaughter, but many nations extended exemptions to religious groups. Religious slaughter is already banned in New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland. A last-minute Dutch amendment – allowing licenses for religious slaughterhouses that “prove” the animals are not in pain – ensures debate will continue. – YaleGlobal