Council of Europe Moves Towards Easing Wolf Protections Amid Rising Conflicts
The Council of Europe is taking steps to adopt a firmer approach towards wolves in response to rising conflicts between these animals and livestock. The responsible committee has approved a request from EU member states aiming to lower the wolves' current protection status under the Bern Convention, which was enacted in 1979 to safeguard wild animals and plants.
Before these changes can be implemented in Germany, EU laws must undergo amendments to facilitate this shift. Data from the EU indicates a significant increase in the wolf population, which has nearly doubled in the past decade. In parallel, the predation on livestock, particularly sheep and goats, has raised concerns; it is estimated that wolves are responsible for the deaths of at least 65,500 livestock across the EU each year.
The Council of Europe operates independently from the EU and comprises 50 member states, including the United Kingdom and Turkey. While the organization is primarily focused on upholding human rights, it also has a critical role in managing ecological matters through the Bern Convention. Currently, wolves are classified as strictly protected within this treaty framework. However, the recent discussions within the Council suggest a move towards simplifying hunting regulations for problematic wolves.
This proposed change raises significant debates regarding wildlife management, agriculture, and the balance of ecosystems. As the wolf population grows, so does the urgency for solutions that would satisfy both conservationists and farmers. The implications of lowering the protection status on wolves could have a lasting impact on biodiversity, agriculture, and community relations across Europe.
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