"Protection of religious freedom": Halal and kosher rations introduced in AFU

On August 6, DOT signed a memorandum with the Muslims of Crimea and the representative of the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine. Photo: DOT

The Armed Forces of Ukraine are beginning to introduce halal and kosher meals for servicemen practicing Islam and Judaism. As reported by the press service of the Department of Rear Support Organization (DOT), the initiative is aimed at "ensuring the protection of the rights and freedoms of the AFU servicemen to freedom of religion."

The corresponding memorandum was signed by DOT representatives, the spiritual administration of the Supreme Mufti of Crimea, and the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine.

As stated by the executive director of DOT, Andriy Sozansky, they are trying to create all conditions for the military practicing Islam and Judaism.

"The least we can do for servicemen practicing Islam or Judaism is to provide basic conditions under which they can perform combat tasks without deviating from their religious beliefs and cultural characteristics," said Sozansky.

The parties agreed to work together on the development, testing, and implementation of dry rations that meet the canonical requirements of halal and kosher. Religious organizations will provide expert recommendations, and food manufacturers have already begun adapting technological processes to new standards.

The department added that the initiative is part of a broader course by the Ministry of Defense towards "human-centric" provisioning.

As reported by the UOJ, earlier the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine approved an updated technical specification for the daily field food set. According to the innovations, not only regular but also halal and kosher dry rations will be purchased for the AFU servicemen.

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