In late April 2025, Eyes on Animals (EonA) and specialists from Bristol University held a transformative two-day training session at a halal slaughterhouse in Turkey. The goal was to train slaughterhouse workers on how to use a head electric stunner in order to render sheep unconscious before slaughter—an approach that dramatically reduces pain and distress. Electric head stunning turns off the brain instantly, as it puts the brain into a grand-mal seizure. When done correctly, the brain is spanned by the electrodes and the effect is immediate, there is no pain. The animals remains unconscious while being slaughtered, so at least we can prevent the nightmare of sheep being hoisted by one leg and having their throat cut all while fully conscious and sentient.
The first day focused on theory. Inside a small training room just beside the slaughter area, workers—both Turkish and Afghan—gathered to listen to experts explain how electric head stunning works. We gave presentations on the physiological effects of the procedure and reassured participants that, when applied correctly, this method is fully compatible with halal principles and does not compromise the permissibility of the meat. The workers showed a sincere interest, asking thoughtful questions and engaging actively in discussions about animal welfare and religious practice. One of them had a family member with epilepsy and thus knew quickly that during the seizures there is no pain and no memory after of the event.
The second day brought theory into practice. Out in the slaughter area, under careful supervision, the workers were shown how to properly handle and apply an electric stunner to sheep. A Freund head-only electric stunner had just been installed at the facility, making it possible for animals to be rendered unconscious before being hoisted or having their throats cut.
The atmosphere during the hands-on training was one of concentration and openness to learning. Some workers, initially skeptical, were visibly moved after seeing the immediate effect of the stunner on the animals. For many, this was the first time they had considered the emotional and physical experiences of the sheep.
This training would not have been possible without the collaboration of multiple organizations. Acısız Kesim, a Turkish NGO advocating for stunning in Turkey, played a vital role and will help spread this information to Turkish consumers and supermarkets. And of course, the slaughterhouse management and workers themselves showed openness and commitment, helping to make the training a success.
Several positive outcomes emerged from the training: the Freund electric stunner is now in full operation, a significant improvement for all the sheep being slaughtered today and tomorrow there. Perhaps most importantly, there was a clear shift in attitude—from seeing stunning as a foreign concept to recognizing it as a necessary and respectful practice.
This initiative is part of a larger effort by Eyes on Animals to promote compassionate slaughter practices throughout Turkey. While there are still challenges ahead, the willingness shown by the workers and managers gives hope. EonA remains dedicated to supporting these efforts and continuing to advocate for the respectful treatment of animals in all stages of life, even in their final moments. We would like to thank the specialists of Bristol University who help us with passion and professionalism.
