European Parliament votes to lower the protection status of the wolf

In brief

On 8 May 2025, the European Parliament adopted a proposal to amend the Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC) to change the wolf (Canis lupus) from a 'strictly protected' species to a simply 'protected' species. This change would allow European Union (EU) member states to manage wolf populations more easily, including through regulated culling, while maintaining conservation measures.

Background

The wolf has naturally returned to many regions of Europe after being almost eradicated in the 20th century. Strictly protected under the Habitats Directive, it could only be killed in very exceptional cases (immediate danger to humans or livestock). However, attacks on herds and concerns from farmers prompted the European Commission to propose a relaxation. The proposal for a directive (COM(2025)0106) aimed to move the wolf from Annex IV (strict protection) to Annex V (simple protection).

What was decided

The European Parliament, at first reading, approved the Commission's proposal. The Parliament's position corresponds to the final legislative act, Directive (EU) 2025/1237. In practice, the wolf moves from 'strictly protected' to 'protected' status. Member states will now be able to authorise regulated culling to prevent damage to livestock, without having to demonstrate a serious threat to public safety. However, states must ensure that wolf populations remain at a favourable (non-threatened) level and put in place monitoring measures.

Vote result

The text was adopted by 371 votes in favour, 162 against and 37 abstentions. The vote was taken by electronic roll call. As an agreement between Parliament and the Council (member states) was reached beforehand, the directive is now definitively adopted.

What this means for citizens

For farmers and livestock breeders, this decision will make it easier to protect their herds: they can request permits for preventive culling without going through lengthy procedures. For nature defenders, the risk is that wolf populations may decline locally, even though the EU requires monitoring. For the general public, the wolf remains a protected species, but its management becomes more flexible. Citizens can expect debates in each member state on the concrete implementation (culling quotas, protected areas, compensation).