Switzerland criticised over wolf shootings

Switzerland has been slapped on the wrist by the Bern Convention office of the Council of Europe for its wolf policy. It argues preventatively shooting wolves because of “potential damage” is a misinterpretation of this wildlife protection text. +Get the most important news from Switzerland in your inbox Only serious damage caused by wolves can lead to shootings, the Bern Convention office recalled in a letter published on Friday. The Bern Convention is an international law treaty of the Council of Europe that aims to protect wildlife. The Swiss wolf protection association CHWolf filed an appeal with the Bern Convention in December 2023 against Switzerland's wolf regulation policy. The Bern Convention office considered the complaint in September and issued its decision on Friday. In its letter, the office also expressed concern about inaccurate monitoring of damage caused by wolves. Switzerland has not yet been condemned. The office will submit the case to the standing committee in ...