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Netherlands supports plan to weaken protected status of wolf

by AI | 25.May 2024 | Europe in brief AI

The Netherlands supports the European Commission’s plan to protect wolves less. As a result, they can be shot or chased away more easily if necessary.

A wolf in Austria. The European Commission wants to protect wolves in the EU less. PHOTO: APA/HANS KLAUS TECHT

THE HAGUE/BRUSSELS – The Netherlands supports the European Commission’s proposal to weaken the protected status of the wolf. Outgoing minister Christianne van der Wal (Nature) said on Friday that she agrees if a vote is taken, likely in June or July.

Brussels wants the wolf to move from a ‘strictly protected status’ to a ‘protected status.’ According to the minister, it will still take “a very long” time before that happens, as the Bern Convention needs to be amended to allow the status downgrade. After that, it still needs to be adjusted in the European Habitats Directive and national legislation.

Van der Wal wants a “manageable situation” for the wolf in the Netherlands. Lowering the protected status helps with that, she says. As a result, the wolf can be shot or chased away in more cases. The wolf remains protected, she emphasizes.

However, the EU member states have yet to agree on the European Commission’s proposal. Among others, Germany is against the plan. The environmental ministers (who ultimately decide on it) and the agricultural ministers also differ in opinion on the status downgrade.

(May 24, 2024)