Ethical veganism is a philosophical belief, rules tribunal judge
A tribunal judge has ruled he is “overwhelmingly satisfied” that ethical veganism is a philosophical belief and is therefore a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010.
Jordi Casamitjana said he was sacked by the League Against Cruel Sports after raising concerns that its pension fund was being invested in companies involved in animal testing.
The 55-year-old, from London, claims he was unfairly disciplined for making this disclosure and that the decision to dismiss him was because of his philosophical belief in ethical veganism.
At his employment tribunal in Norwich yesterday, judge Robin Postle ruled that ethical veganism satisfies the tests required for it to be a philosophical belief and is therefore a protected characteristic.
He also ruled that Mr Casamitjana adheres to the belief of ethical veganism.
In his short judgment, Mr
Postle said ethical veganism was “important” and “worthy” of respect in a democratic society.
He said: “I am satisfied overwhelmingly that ethical veganism does constitute a philosophical belief and is a protected characteristic.”
Dietary vegans and ethical vegans eat a plant-based diet, but ethical vegans also try to exclude all forms of animal exploitation, including not wearing clothing made of wool or leather and not using products tested on animals.
The League Against Cruel Sports did not contest the issue of whether ethical veganism should be a protected belief during the hearing.
Under the Equality Act it is unlawful to discriminate, harass or victimise workers or job applicants on the grounds of their religion, religious belief or philosophical belief.
For a belief to be protected under the Act, it must meet a series of tests including being worthy of respect in a democratic society, not being incompatible with human dignity and not conflicting with fundamental rights of others.
After the ruling, Slater and Gordon solicitor Peter Daly, who is acting for Mr Casamitjana,said:“thisisaverysignificant judgment. Ethical veganism can be protected from discrimination.”
Any abuse directed at ethical vegans “might be seen to be harassment in the same way a racist or sexist slur might be discriminatory action”.
He added: “The recognition ...will have potentially significant effects on employment and the workplace, education, transport and the provision of goods and services.”