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| Jewish Swedish leader on kosher slaughter
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EJP interviewed Thomas Bab, executive director of the Jewish Community in Stockholm, on the issue of kosher slaughter in Sweden.
EJP : How important is the question of kosher slaughter to Jews in Sweden?
TB: The practical importance is not so great. Even if we were allowed to perform kosher slaughter it may be that the market would be so small that it would be too expensive. It is more important as a matter of principle – the right to practice one’s religion.
EJP :What sort of opposition do you expect in parliament?
TB: There are many people in parliament and in Sweden in general who are concerned for the rights and welfare of animals. They believe that animals suffer more during kosher slaughter. It is considered a cruel method. This concern for animals may be seen as more important than freedom of religion.”
EJP : How come you cooperated with the Muslim Council of Sweden and the Brotherhood Movement in this question?
TB:Since halal slaughter is so similar to kosher slaughter, Muslims in Sweden are in the same boat as Jews. The Brotherhood Movement, which regards the freedom of religion as very important, has been active in bringing together Jews and Muslims on this issue.
EJP :Why has the question of religious slaughter come up now
TB: There have been numerous investigations and reports on this matter for the past 10 to 20 years, but the government has probably not dared to challenge those who are concerned with animal welfare. Maybe recently new weight has been given to the right of freedom of religion. And it could be that the number of Muslims in Sweden is so large now that it is considered a significant group of voters.
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