On 5 June 2025, the EU Large Carnivore platform held its 12th Plenary Meeting in the Netherlands, gathering representatives from the European Commission (DG ENV and DG AGRI), NGOs, researchers, and stakeholder groups to address recent policy developments and future strategies for large carnivore management in Europe. The discussions focused on the implications of Europe’s wolf policy and its downlisting, the role of CAP funding in supporting coexistence and preventive measures, the application of Favourable Reference Values (FRV) and best practices for monitoring, the evolving concept of coexistence with large carnivores, and the growing pressures on reindeer herders, particularly in relation to ecotourism.

Why it matters: As the protection status of the wolf recently changed, it is increasingly important for stakeholders to understand the legal and policy implications of downlisting, review monitoring standards and foster cross-border cooperation, and make more effective use of CAP funding to support livestock protection and promote coexistence. Equally crucial is addressing the social dimensions of large carnivore management, including public fear, the rural-urban divide, and the need for broader stakeholder representation.

What’s next: The Platform agreed on several next steps to support better management of large carnivores across Europe. These include further developing the report on how countries can assess the conservation status of carnivore populations. It also aims to improve the exchange of ideas and experiences on how EU farming funds can more effectively support coexistence between people and wildlife.