Oulu warned for indirect discrimination over vegetarian meals during strikes

The city of Oulu has received a warning for indirect discrimination after failing to provide vegetarian meals for a child whose family required them due to their beliefs. The issue arose during two days affected by strikes organized by the Public and Welfare Trade Union JHL in November and December 2023, during which only meat dishes were available, according to the city.

A local parent lodged a complaint with the Equality and Gender Equality Board, which monitors compliance with the Equality Act. The Board concluded that the city of Oulu had committed indirect discrimination by placing the child at a disadvantage based on their family’s beliefs. As a result, the city is now obliged to ensure such a situation does not occur during future strike events.

Mika Penttilä, Oulu’s Director of Education and Culture, stated that the city plans to discuss the matter with Oulu Production Kitchen Ltd. However, Oulu intends to appeal the board’s decision in administrative court. Penttilä explained that the kitchen staff did not prepare food during the strike days, making it impossible to offer vegetarian options. Consequently, only mixed meals were provided.

In November, meat pasta bake was served, while December’s menu was supposed to include porridge, which was later changed to meat. Ritva Lasaroff, head of user services at Oulu’s facility services, noted that the production kitchen had announced chicken and vegetable risotto availability. To prevent food waste, the decision was made to accept the food without knowing if any children went without meals.

This warning is not the first for Oulu; in 2023, the city began offering vegan food in daycare and schools only after the Equality Board demanded it under the threat of fines. However, the city argues that it provides dietary options only out of necessity, believing this regulation places vegans in a more favorable position than others with specific dietary needs.