Policy documents or official statements from European governments

Europe Lowers Wolf Protection Under Bern Convention; Farmers Relieved, Environmentalists Concerned

Dec 3, 2024, 10:40 AM

European countries have approved a proposal to downgrade the protection status of wolves under the Bern Convention—from "strictly protected" to "protected." This unprecedented decision, supported by the European Union at the request of member states, was made at a meeting in Strasbourg. Farmers and politicians, such as Bert-Jan Ruissen, have welcomed the move, arguing it allows for better management of wolves that threaten livestock. However, environmental groups and scientists express concern, warning that reducing protections could harm the species' recovery. Individual countries will now have more flexibility to manage wolf populations, including the possibility of controlled hunting.