EUAmbassadors Seek Lowered Protection for Wolves Amid Growing Conflict

Summary:
European Union (EU) ambassadors are advocating for a reduction in the wolf’s protected status within the European Union. This push comes after the European Commission proposed lowering the wolf’s status from strictly protected to protected species. The decision will be made at a meeting of the economics affairs ministers from all EU member states on Thursday.

Key Points:

1. Proposed Change:

   • The European Commission proposed lowering the wolf’s status from strictly protected to protected species. This change is part of a broader effort to address concerns raised by EU member states, particularly those with significant wolf populations.

2. Timeline and Process:

   • Initially, the environmental ministers were supposed to make the decision next month. However, the process has been expedited, and the economics affairs ministers will now decide.
   • The decision is influenced by the Berne Convention and the European Habitats Directive, both of which currently provide strict protection for wolves.

3. EU Countries’ Stance:

   • The Netherlands, which has 11 wolf packs (8 of which are in Gelderland), has voted in favor of the proposal.
   • The Netherlands’ Agricultural and Horticultural Organization (LTO) is supportive of the move, arguing that it offers more possibilities for managing wolf populations, including the use of lethal control measures when necessary.

4. Scientific Concerns:

   • Scientists specializing in wolves have raised concerns about the genetic strength of the wolf population and the continued illegal hunting of wolves.
   • At a conference in the European Parliament, it was noted that while there are many wolves, the species is not genetically robust enough to support a reduction in their protected status.

5. Political and Organizational Stances:

   • Supportive Parties:

     • Politicians like Harold Zoet of the BBB in Gelderland are supportive, stating that the extra protected status is no longer necessary.
     • The LTO (Agricultural and Horticultural Organization) is also in favor, advocating for prevention and deterrence measures, with lethal control as a last resort.

   • Opposition:

     • Environmental organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund, Friends of the Earth, IFAW, and the Dutch Society for the Protection of Animals have criticized the plan, calling it politically motivated.
     • They argue that the proposal lacks a scientific basis and that Europe should focus on coexisting with wolves rather than reducing their protection.
     • These organizations propose measures such as increasing fenced-in areas, using more dogs to protect livestock, and providing support to farmers who must implement such measures.

6. Future Actions:

   • The decision on Thursday will be crucial, as it will determine whether the wolf’s protected status is reduced. If approved, this could lead to changes in how wolves are managed across EU member states, particularly in areas with significant wolf populations.

Conclusion:

The push to lower the wolf’s protected status in the EU is a complex issue involving scientific, political, and environmental considerations. While some stakeholders support the move, citing practical management needs, others argue for maintaining the current protections to ensure the long-term health and genetic diversity of the wolf population. The outcome of the upcoming meeting will have significant implications for wolf conservation and management policies in the EU.

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