European Vegetarian Union

written/translated by: Georgia Blackwell

Press Releases from the EVU

Brussels, 19 May 2002


Germany: A Commendable Step Towards Better Animal Protection


The two hundred organisations and individual members of the European Vegetarian Union enthusiastically welcome the fact that the first EU nation will guarantee rights for animals in its constitution. After almost ten years of debate, on 17 May 2002 the German Parliament
decided with overwhelming unity in the interest of better animal protection. After this vote will have been approved by the Bundesrat (upper house), it is liable to change the scenario in all fields of animal "use". Article 20a of the German Basic Law will then read: "The state takes responsibility for protecting the natural foundations of life and animals in the interest of future
generations."


The fact that this information spread like wild-fire through the international media shows the enormous general interest just as clearly as the obvious readiness of people everywhere for a more humane approach towards animals and nature. All EVU members from more than 30 countries are convinced that this historical decision will set an example. They hope that other countries to follow suit soon and by that build the base for a better way ahead.


In Germany all animals are liable to receive better protection in the future. Not only regulations regarding animal experiments will be affected but the conditions for animals in general, including those bred exclusively for slaughter, will have to be re-assessed. However, vegetarians want to go an important step further by promoting a diet without meat altogether. Such a lifestyle is not only caring towards animals and the environment but it also brings about undisputable health blessings and opens ways to use available food resources more efficiently - for the benefit of all.

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