Is the EU shifting gears on large carnivore coexistence?

-24 September 2024, Brussels –

FOLLOW THE EVENT LIVE @ 14h.

The EEB is supporting a critical event in the European Parliament on Tuesday 24 September, co-hosted by MEP Wiezik (Renew), MEP Luena (S&D), MEP Hazekamp (Left). The topic: wolves. The discussion will focus on existing wolf protection measures, their challenges and the recent European Commission proposal to downgrade the protection status of wolves.

Once on the brink of extinction, wolves have made a remarkable recovery in Europe thanks to strict protection under EU and international environmental law. The resurgence of wolves brings new challenges for which scientists and practitioners have developed tools and coexistence practices to support local communities.

However, in light of the European Commission’s controversial proposal to reduce the protection status of wolves under the Bern Convention (and the EU Habitats Directive), these long-standing efforts for successful conservation appear to be under threat. This also goes against the EU’s commitment to biodiversity protection and successful coexistence with large carnivores, as enshrined in the EU Biodiversity Strategy and the Global Biodiversity Framework.

The discussion will bring together MEPs and experts from different Member States to discuss what these challenges are, how coexistence approaches can help to address them, and what the consequences of downgrading the wolf’s protection status might be for EU nature conservation practice and international commitments.

We aim to explore practical solutions that promote coexistence between wolves, farmers and local communities, ensuring that both wildlife and human interests can thrive together.

Agenda:

14:00: Opening remarks

14:15: Presentation and discussion with panelists on wolf conservation and coexistence practices

15:15: Questions and answers

15:30: Closing remarks

15:45 – 16:15: Drinks

The debate is aimed at MEPs, MS officials, stakeholders and NGOs. It will be livestreamed and shared afterwards. 

This discussion is organised in close cooperation with BirdLife International, Client Earth and WWF EU.