Ethical Veganism Is Protected By Law, Tribunal Rules

A tribunal has ruled for the first time that ethical veganism is a "philosophical belief" and therefore is protected by law. 

The judge ruled that veganism should fall under the Equality Act 2010. "Religion or belief" is one of nine "protected characteristics" covered by the Equality Act 2010.

The tribunal's verdict means that ethical vegans are entitled to protection from discrimination.

The judge Robin Postle ruled that ethical veganism is a philosophical belief, explaining it was "important" and "worthy" of respect in a democratic society.

He said: "I am satisfied overwhelmingly that ethical veganism does constitute a philosophical belief."

The case was brought by vegan Jordi Casamitjana, who claimed that he was sacked by League Against Cruel Sports after disclosing the animal welfare charity invested pension funds in firms involved in animal testing.

Jordi Casamitjana said he was "extremely happy" with the ruling and he hopes that fellow vegans "will benefit". 

He said: "I'm really, really satisfied and I hope all the vegans out there that have been supporting me - there have been many helping me in my crowdfunding - I hope they now feel their little donation has been properly used and all the vegans will benefit." 

He added: "Veganism is a philosophical belief and when you look at my life and anybody else's life who is an ethical vegan, you will see it. This is a positive belief, it's not a negative belief. And therefore a positive belief is bound to be protected."

Casamitjana said he was feeling "optimistic" for the ruling on his dismissal. The tribunal will now consider whether he was treated less favourably by the employer because of his ethical veganism.

Peter Daly, the solicitor for Jordi Casamitjana, said 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".