The European Commission launches proceedings against Italy

The European Commission recently launched an infringement procedure against Italy for non-compliance with hunting rules. The Commission found that several pieces of legislation introduced by Giorgia Meloni’s government breach EU rules.

It appears that the current government has granted regions the power to authorize the killing or capture of wildlife, even in areas where hunting is not permitted.

According to the Commission, Italy does not comply with the rules on the use of lead in ammunition. Rome is also accused of not protecting several species during fishing activities. The Italian government has two months to react and change the law.

Italy’s main national hunters’ association is confident the government will clarify its position on the issue and says it has no intention of breaking the law.

However, according to the Italian Organization for Animal Rights, Protection and Welfare, this offense is politically motivated and the current government is doing little to protect the environment.

Carla Rocchi, is the president of ENPA (National Organization for the Protection of Animals)

“If the Italian hunters have found representatives within the ruling coalition, it is obvious that their interests are taken into account. In general, political parties prioritize the demands of certain pressure groups in order to obtain votes. This dynamic extends to areas such as animal rights, the environment and various other policy sectors. At present, the likelihood of public interests being taken into account seems quite low.”