IFAW statement on the downgrade of the wolf’s protection status under the Bern Convention

Brussels, 6 March 2025. From today, the wolf is not anymore a strictly protected species in Europe: the downgrade of the wolf’s protection status from “strictly protected” to “protected” under the Bern Convention enters into force. This unprecedented move jeopardises years of conservation efforts in Europe. It sends the wrong message at a time when biodiversity is under threat.

"This decision ignores science and prioritises political convenience over conservation," said Ilaria Di Silvestre, IFAW’s Director of Policy and Advocacy for Europe. "It will do nothing to help farmers or reduce conflict. Instead, it puts wolves in greater danger." 

Non-lethal coexistence measures have proven to be the most effective way to prevent conflicts between wolves and farmers. Many successful examples exist across Europe.

"Rather than weakening protection, governments should invest in solutions that work," added Di Silvestre. "Supporting farmers with effective preventive measures is the best way forward."

The decision to downgrade wolf protection was adopted by the Bern Convention Standing Committee on 3 December 2024, following an EU proposal and despite strong opposition from conservationists, civil society, and scientific experts. Now that it takes effect, the EU can start the procedure to downlist the wolf protection also under the EU legislation.

After decades of strict protection that allowed the species’ slow and still partial recovering, this will certainly result in more wolf hunting. Most of the wolf populations in the EU have not yet reached a favourable conservation status, as requested by the EU legislation. Lowering their protection now is premature and irresponsible.

All Bern Convention’s parties, including individual Member States, can still decide to implement stricter species protection rules at national level. IFAW therefore calls on all countries to uphold strong protections for wolves. 

ENDS

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