Relief for Farmers / Quick Final Solution Needed

“I am very glad that the European Commission is going ahead with the wolf issue,” said Peter Liese, environmental spokesperson for the largest group in the European Parliament (EPP, Christian Democrats). Today, the decision to change the wolf's protection status from 'strictly protected' to 'protected' comes into effect. From today, the EU member states have the opportunity to adapt the EU’s Habitats Directive accordingly. “This brings us one step closer to managing the wolf population. People are concerned about the increasing spread of wolves. They are no longer an endangered species, but rather a threat, especially to grazing animals. Wolf attacks have significantly increased in recent years putting a hard burden on farmers. Now, farmers can finally breathe a sigh of relief. After the European Parliament already called for a change in the protection status in 2022, we now really need a quick final solution. Therefore, in my opinion, we must proceed in two steps. The question of the wolves is very urgent and we need a quick solution. I think it is wise to immediately make a targeted change that alters the status of the wolves. Then, we should carefully assess the situation for other species. But I think it wouldn’t be wise to mix everything up right now.”

MEP Alexander Bernhuber (EPP) welcomed the decision, stating: “This is an important step forward for rural areas and livestock farmers. The rapidly growing wolf population poses an increasing challenge, and we must ensure that coexistence with traditional farming remains possible. By adjusting the protection status, we are giving member states the necessary flexibility to react appropriately and protect their grazing animals.”