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Dutch Council Backs Bill for Humane Ritual Slaughter Rules

10/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Dutch Council of State largely supported Esther Ouwehand (Partij voor de Dieren)'s bill requiring stunning before ritual slaughter.
The bill follows a 2020 European Court ruling allowing bans without infringing religious freedoms.
It also would prohibit slaughtering pregnant mammals after 40% gestation, though the Council seeks further justification.
Ouwehand emphasized the bill respects religious concerns, noting that the advisory opinion is not binding.

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Story summary

The Dutch Council of State largely supported Esther Ouwehand (Partij voor de Dieren)'s bill requiring stunning before ritual slaughter.
The bill follows a 2020 European Court ruling allowing bans without infringing religious freedoms.
It also would prohibit slaughtering pregnant mammals after 40% gestation, though the Council seeks further justification.
Ouwehand emphasized the bill respects religious concerns, noting that the advisory opinion is not binding.