European Parliament Approves Lower Protection Status for Wolves

brussels - The European Parliament votes to downgrade the protection status of wolves from 'strictly protected' to 'protected', allowing easier management and culling of the species.

European Parliament Approves Lower Protection Status for Wolves

The European Parliament has finalized a decision to lower the protection status of wolves within the European Union from 'strictly protected' to 'protected', a move that could facilitate better management and control measures for the species.

Background

The issue gained momentum after a wolf attack resulting in the death of the favorite pony of EU leader Ursula von der Leyen, pushing for a reevaluation of the wolf's protected status.

Controversial Decision

While some, like SGP-EU Parliamentarian Bert-Jan Ruissen, welcome the change citing increasing conflicts with livestock, others including nature conservationists and Green politicians like GL-EU Parliamentarian Bas Eickhout, criticize the decision for lacking proper scientific basis.

Next Steps

The decision now awaits final approval by EU member states, expected to be completed before the summer holiday. However, in the Netherlands, immediate wolf culling is not permitted as the species remains protected, pending ongoing scientific assessments and adjustments to national regulations.

Upcoming Challenges

The Dutch government is conducting further research on the wolf population, with uncertainties surrounding the timeline for completion and the subsequent need to align national rules with the amended EU regulations, followed by provincial permitting processes.