Animal Rights and Methods of Slaughter: A Comparative Study in the Light of Islamic and Western Laws

جانوروں کےحقوق اور ذبح کا طریقہ کار: اسلامی و مغربی قوانین کی روشنی میں ایک تقابلی جائزہ

Abstract

The discourse on animal rights and slaughter methods has gained prominence in contemporary religious, legal, and ethical debates. Islamic teachings, rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah, advocate compassion toward animals, emphasizing provision of sustenance, prevention of cruelty, and humane slaughter practices that minimize suffering, as outlined in verses like Surah Al-Nahl (16:5-8). These teachings integrate spiritual and ethical dimensions, positioning humans as stewards responsible for animal welfare. Conversely, Western frameworks, such as the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and European Union regulations, prioritize legal and scientific standards, mandating humane treatment, stunning before slaughter, and welfare-focused practices. This comparative study reveals that both systems emphasize humane treatment, yet differ significantly in their foundations: Islamic principles are deeply spiritual, linking animal welfare to divine commandments, while Western laws focus on regulatory compliance and empirical measures. Despite these differences, both frameworks converge on promoting responsible human conduct toward animals. The analysis underscores the need for dialogue to bridge these perspectives, fostering mutual understanding and enhancing global animal welfare standards.