List of arguments for discussions with the Student Services Organisation / Senate:

1. Social and cultural inclusion

• Around a quarter of students in Kassel have an international background, many of whom are Muslim.
• Offering halal food would be a concrete contribution to the inclusion of all students in the canteen infrastructure.
• It strengthens the sense of togetherness and shows that cultural diversity is actively promoted.

2. Equal treatment and freedom of religion

• The Basic Law protects freedom of religion (Art. 4 GG).
• Offering halal food is not giving preferential treatment, but rather putting religious equality into practice in everyday life.
• Other dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, vegetarian, lactose-free) are already taken into account – halal would be a logical addition.

3. Economic and organisational feasibility

• Many wholesalers and catering companies now offer certified halal meat at comparable prices.
• The additional logistical effort is minimal if a weekly halal day or a single halal dish is introduced.
• Due to high demand, the offer would quickly become economically self-sustaining.

4. Examples of good practice at other universities

• Several universities in Germany (e.g. Frankfurt, Darmstadt, Hanover, Munich) successfully offer halal dishes.
• These examples show that halal offerings can be easily integrated and are widely accepted.

5. Contribution to sustainability and dialogue

• Halal does not only mean ‘religiously acceptable’, but often also encompasses conscious and respectful slaughtering and animal husbandry practices.
• Transparent, certified purchasing can contribute to improved quality and more conscious nutrition.
• In addition, such an offering promotes intercultural dialogue on campus.

Proposal for implementation:

• Introduction of a weekly halal menu (e.g. on Wednesdays or Thursdays).
• Collaboration with certified regional suppliers.
• Clear labelling of dishes in the canteen app and on the menus.
• Evaluation after one semester to measure demand and satisfaction.

The University of Kassel stands for diversity, equality and inclusion. Nevertheless, Muslim students are currently effectively excluded from the meat offerings in the canteen because there is no halal option available.

A halal option would not be a special request, but a sign of equal opportunities and religious freedom in everyday life. Other universities – e.g. Frankfurt, Hanover and Munich – have already successfully introduced halal dishes, with consistently positive feedback.

A weekly halal menu would:
– improve participation among many students,
– strengthen the university's image as an open, inclusive institution,
– and make a valuable contribution to intercultural dialogue on campus.

Diversity is also reflected on the plate – the University of Kassel should set a good example here.