A historic decision by the European Court of Human Rights (G.K. and A.S. v. Switzerland) has officially recognised that ethical veganism is a protected characteristic under international law.
This case involved two individuals who were repeatedly denied proper plant-based food despite their reasonable requests. Instead, public authorities simply offered them standard vegetarian options containing eggs, dairy or meals with poor nutritional value. In response, the Court ruled that Switzerland violated the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). It was found that Article 9, freedom of conscience and Article 13, the right to an effective remedy were violated. As a result of this institutional neglect, these individuals were awarded over €26,000 in total damages and legal costs.
There were a number of fundamental reasons underpinning this ruling. Firstly this ruling protects ethical convictions; ethical veganism is founded in a sincere anti-speciesist philosophy which meet the threshold for fundamental beliefs under Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Secondly, vegetarian food is insufficient and can even contradict values of ethical veganism; instead, institutions must provide meals which are both completely plant-based and nutritious. Thirdly, public institutions are legally bound to provide effective channels for resolving dietary disputes, which was not adhered to.
This ruling by the European Court of Human Rights represents brighter future of ethical veganism and the cause alike. A legal standard has been set which safeguards the treatment of ethical vegans in public institutions such as schools, hospitals and prisons. This court decision will protect and promote the lives of vegans across society, and by extension the animals spared by those who have chosen the compassionate lifestyle.