The Bern Convention, which guarantees the protection of wildlife especially in europe, approved on Tuesday 3 December a downgrading of the protection status of the wolf, which will change the species “strictly protected” ha “protected”.
The 49 member states, meeting in Strasbourg, approved a proposal to this effect from the European Union, which aims to better protect livestock in a context of increasing wolf populations, the Council of the European Union said in a press release . Europe.
“The amendment will enter into force in three months,unless at least one third of the parties to the Berne Convention (17) object”the Council of Europe specified. “If less than one third of the parties object, the decision will come into force only for those parties who have not raised objections”he added.
Risk of weakening
The wolf population in Europe has practically doubled in the space of 10 years, reaching 20,300 individuals in 2023.
While many breeders have supported this decision, which will make it easier to kill the dog, animal protection associations have warned of the risk of weakening the species.
The Bern Convention brings together the 46 member states of the Council of Europe, with the exception of San Marino, and four African states: Burkina faso, morocco, Senegal and Tunisia. The European Union is also part of it.
How can farmers and conservationists collaborate to address the challenges posed by increasing wolf populations?
Interview with Dr.Elena Marquet, Wildlife Conservation Expert: Implications of the Bern Convention’s Decision on Wolf Protection
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, dr. Marquet.Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent decision by the Bern Convention regarding the downgrading of wolf protection status in Europe. Can you summarize the key aspects of this decision?
Dr.Elena Marquet: Good afternoon.Yes, indeed, the Bern Convention, which oversees the protection of wildlife in Europe, has recently decided to change the status of the wolf from “strictly protected” to “protected.” This amendment was approved by the 49 member states during a meeting in Strasbourg on December 3, stemming from a proposal by the European Union to better protect livestock amid increasing wolf populations. The decision will take effect in three months unless at least one-third of the parties to the Convention object.
Time.news Editor: What sparked the proposal to change the protection status for wolves?
Dr. Elena Marquet: The driving force behind this proposal is the significant increase in wolf populations across Europe, which has nearly doubled over the last decade to approximately 20,300 individuals as of 2023. Many livestock breeders have voiced concerns about the impact of wolves on agriculture, prompting the EU’s proposal aimed at allowing for more flexible management and, ultimately, safeguarding livestock against predation.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned that many breeders support this decision. What are their main arguments?
Dr.Elena Marquet: Breeders argue that the growing wolf population is directly impacting livestock farming, leading to potential economic losses due to attacks on sheep and other animals. By downgrading the protection status, they believe this will facilitate more efficient control measures, enabling them to protect their herds more effectively.
Time.news Editor: On the flip side, animal protection associations have expressed concerns. What are the risks they foresee with this change?
Dr. Elena Marquet: animal protection groups warn that downgrading the wolf’s status could weaken the species’ long-term survival. Currently, wolves play a crucial ecological role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. Reduced protections could lead to increased culling or illegal killings, jeopardizing their populations and disrupting ecological harmony.
Time.news Editor: What does this decision mean for the broader conservation efforts in Europe?
Dr.elena Marquet: This amendment raises important questions about striking a balance between wildlife protection and agricultural needs. While addressing the concerns of livestock farmers is necessary, it is equally important to ensure that conservation efforts do not falter. This situation could set a precedent for how Europe manages species that are recovering but may pose challenges to human interests.
Time.news Editor: As someone deeply involved in wildlife conservation, what practical advice woudl you give to both livestock farmers and conservationists in navigating this new landscape?
Dr.Elena marquet: collaboration is key. I encourage farmers to explore non-lethal deterrence methods to protect their livestock,such as using guard animals,fencing,or employing sound systems to ward off wolves. Conversely, conservationists can engage with farmers to provide education on coexistence strategies and enhance understanding of wolves’ ecological role. Open communication between stakeholders can foster a cooperative environment where both agriculture and wildlife can thrive.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, how do you see the future of wolf conservation in Europe under these new regulations?
Dr. Elena Marquet: The future of wolf conservation will depend on the willingness of all parties to work together towards a enduring coexistence model. Continuous monitoring of wolf populations and their impact on livestock will be crucial. If the concerns around culling are taken seriously, we may develop frameworks that support both farmers and wildlife, leading to healthier ecosystems and productive agricultural practices.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Marquet, for your insights. This decision poses significant implications for both wildlife conservation and agriculture in Europe, highlighting the ongoing challenge of coexistence.
Dr. Elena Marquet: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue to engage in these discussions to forge effective solutions for the future.