European Parliament cuts wolf protection: more freedom for Member States, harsh criticism from environmentalists
The European Parliament adopts a resolution changing the protective status of the wolf under EU rules. It should now be listed as "protected" - not "strictly protected" as it has been. This change should allow Member States more flexibility in dealing with cases where wolves threaten livestock.
The change was supported mainly by centre-right and right-wing groups. They argue that farmers need clear rules and the ability to react quickly to specific damage. However, Parliament has also stressed that any intervention must be proportionate and that the wolf population must not be endangered.
Environmental organisations have strongly criticised the decision. They say it threatens to open the way to a general cull and weaken protection for other species. They also point to political pressures - for example, the fact that Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had a pony killed by a wolf in the past.