EU Nations Call to Lower Bear Protection Status
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Brussels: A group of European Union nations is pushing to reduce the protection status of brown bears to allow for more effective population control.
During a meeting of agriculture ministers in Luxembourg on Monday, proponents argued that rapidly expanding bear numbers have led to increased danger for both humans and livestock across the region.
Leading the appeal, Romania and Slovakia highlighted that bears have killed 18 people and seriously injured more than 200 individuals over the past five years.
Furthermore, they reported that large carnivores have mauled more than 2,000 domestic animals including horses, cattle, and sheep since 2023, resulting in severe economic costs.
The proposal has gained additional support from Croatia, the Czech Republic, and Finland. Proponents point to the successful lowering of wolf protection status last year as a precedent for the current bear management plan.
While environmental groups oppose the potential cull, a majority of EU nations must approve the change before official procedures can begin.
Photo Credits: AFP
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