Statement – EUPJ and WUPJ Respond to European Ban on Kosher and Halal Slaughter
The European Union’s raison d’etre is to promote tolerance for and protection of minorities. The European Union of Progressive Judaism (EUPJ) recently opened an office in Brussels because it believed that the European Union was taking strong action to fight antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Europe.
Unfortunately, the European Court of Justice has upheld a ban on the kosher and halal slaughter of animals in Belgium. This ruling represents a dangerous denial of religious freedom. It contradicts the European Union’s commitment to protecting fundamental human rights.
We will continue to work with others to press the European Union to live up to its commitments.
Rabbi Dr René Pfertzel, Chair, European Rabbinic Assembly (ERA)
William Echikson, Director, Brussels Office, European Union of Progressive Judaism (EUPJ)
Sonja Guentner, Chair, European Union of Progressive Judaism (EUPJ)
Rabbi Sergio Bergman, President, World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ)
Carole Sterling, Chair, World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ)
