On 30 July 2026, an online workshop brought together European, national, regional and scientific stakeholders to discuss the challenges of brown bear management and coexistence across Europe. The event was organised by Csaba Borboly, Member of the European Committee of the Regions and Vice-President of Harghita County Council, and co-hosted by Barna Tánczos, Deputy Prime Minister of Romania.

A key message from the discussion was that brown bear management cannot follow a single European approach. Bear populations, habitat conditions and levels of conflict vary widely between regions, meaning that management measures need to reflect local ecological and socio-economic realities.

Participants stressed the importance of science-based management, reliable monitoring and effective preventive measures. They also discussed the EU legal framework, including the Habitats Directive and the use of derogations under Article 16, highlighting the need for legal tools that can respond effectively to clearly demonstrated local circumstances.

The role of local and regional authorities, farmers and affected communities was also emphasised. Participants agreed that people living alongside large bear populations should be closely involved in decision-making and supported through appropriate prevention and compensation measures.

The workshop concluded that successful coexistence depends on flexible, regionally adapted management, supported by science, functioning legal tools, local involvement and stronger cooperation between European regions.