Key facts
- Italy's Senate has passed a significant reform of hunting laws.
- The proposed legislation would extend hunting seasons, grounds, and species.
- Hunters would be officially recognized as 'bioregulators' for biodiversity protection.
- The European Commission has raised concerns about the reform potentially violating the EU's Birds Directive.
- The bill faces internal political opposition within Giorgia Meloni's coalition and from environmental groups.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government is pushing a sweeping reform of Italy's hunting laws, a move that has ignited a culture war and created political pressure both domestically and with Brussels. The legislation, which has passed the Senate and is now before a parliamentary committee, would significantly liberalize hunting rights by extending hunting grounds and seasons and increasing the number of huntable species.
A key and controversial aspect of the reform is the redefinition of hunters as 'bioregulators' tasked with protecting biodiversity. This has drawn strong opposition from environmental and animal rights groups, who have dubbed the bill the 'shoot everything' act. Polls indicate that a vast majority of Italians view hunting negatively.
The reform is seen by some as a political maneuver by Meloni to appeal to conservative voters, particularly as she faces increasing pressure from a new nationalist movement led by retired General Roberto Vannacci. Vannacci has actively engaged with hunting associations, framing hunting as a duty to manage nature.
Politicians within Meloni's own coalition, including members of Forza Italia and Noi Moderati, have expressed reservations about the bill, highlighting internal tensions. Experts suggest these clashes may intensify as coalition partners seek to differentiate themselves from the rising nationalist right.
Beyond domestic politics, the proposed changes have also drawn the attention of the European Commission. In December, the EU executive sent Rome an official letter expressing concerns that the reform could violate the bloc's Birds Directive. The Commission stated it is 'closely monitoring' the legislative process.