On 8 May 2025, the European Parliament voted in favour of amending the protection status of the wolf (Canis lupus) under the EU Habitats Directive, moving the species from Annex IV (strictly protected) to Annex V (protected). This decision was subsequently approved by the Council on 5 June, marking a pivotal step toward more adaptable and regionally responsive wolf management across Europe.

The vote followed over 18 months of intensive political debate and stakeholder engagement, strongly supported by FACE and its members. This development builds on the European Commission’s proposal (7 March 2025) and the Bern Convention Standing Committee’s decision (December 2024) to downlist the wolf to Appendix III, which officially came into effect on 7 March 2025.

Why This Matters:

• The amendment recognises the successful recovery of wolf populations across various European regions.
• It grants Member States greater flexibility to adopt locally tailored management measures, particularly in areas facing rising human-wildlife conflicts.
• The wolf remains a protected species at the EU level but within a more manageable and adaptive legal framework.

Next Steps: Transposition Phase (2025–2026)
Following publication in the Official Journal of the EU (expected mid-June 2025), Member States will have 18 months to implement the changes into their national legislation.

Actions Required by Member States: Assess national legislation to determine necessary steps
◉ Adopt new laws, if require
◉ Amend existing legislation to align with the directive
◉ No action, if existing laws are already compliant