The prohibition of ritual slaughter in "temporary slaughterhouses" does not violate right to religious freedom. This is clear from opinion of Advocate General Nils Wahl before European Court of Justice (ECJ). The fact that slaughter should in principle only be carried out in approved slaughterhouses is a completely neutral rule. The ECJ generally follows recommendations of competent advocate general.

In initial case, several Islamic associations and mosque umbrella organisations had sued in Belgium after 2015 was determined that all slaughter of animals without anessia, even during Islamic victims ' feast, was allowed only in approved slaughterhouses Be. A Belgian court n asked ECJ wher this strict standard could prevent practicing Muslims from fulfilling ir religious duty at feast – and refore restrict ir freedom of religion inadmissible.

Advocate general election rejected this in his opinion. If re are "cyclical capacity problems" at slaughterhouses on occasion of Islamic Victim Festival, question arises as to who should be responsible for construction of furr slaughterhouses. The requirement that, for reasons of animal welfare and health, only be allowed to be enabattoirsed in approved legislation is neutral and does not restrict religious freedom.

The shafts are a ritual slaughter method prescribed in Islam and Judaism, which allows consumption of bloodless meat. At same time, animals are cut through neck arteries as well as trachea and esophagus. A stunning is dispensed with, so that animal bleeds completely due to still active cycle. The enjoyment of blood is forbidden in both religions.

In Germany, shafts are prohibited under Animal Protection Act. However, religious communities whose faith slaughter "mandatory" may apply for special permits.

Date Of Update: 01 December 2017, 12:03