On 25-27 June, FACE attended the 59^th International Hunting Conference, organised by its Austrian Member, Jagd Österreich, following a six-year break. The programme surrounding the event provided a valuable opportunity to meet and exchange views with local stakeholders and representatives of hunting associations.

The conference explored the relationship between animal ethics and responsible hunting, alongside modern public communication, ethical responsibility, and the political challenges currently facing hunting and landownership at global, European and national levels. The discussions were lively and constructive, with numerous contributions from participants enriching the debate and bringing a broad range of perspectives to the exchange.

FACE provided an update on key legislative and policy files currently under discussion at EU level, including the proposed restrictions on lead ammunition under REACH, the future of the Common Agricultural Policy, the planned ‘stress test’ of the Birds and Habitats Directives, and the ongoing evaluation of the Firearms Directive.

FACE also highlighted several successes achieved over the past year. These included favourable provisions for dog owners in the resolution on the welfare of dogs and cats, a European Parliament resolution on CITES that, for the first time in ten years, did not call for a ban on imports of hunting trophies, and the reopening of hunting in Albania.