Slovakia's Brown Bear Cull Sparks EU Law Concerns

Slovakia has authorized the sale and consumption of meat from up to 350 culled brown bears, representing about a quarter of the country's population, in response to a rise in bear attacks, including a fatal incident in April. Officials argue the cull is necessary for public safety and due to overpopulation, but the move has drawn sharp criticism from environmentalists and opposition figures. Critics warn the policy could foster poaching, turn nature organizations into butcheries, and should instead focus on preventative measures, noting that most bear encounters are non-violent. The decision has fueled controversy within Slovakia and internationally, as brown bears are protected by EU law and culling is permitted only in exceptional cases. The European Commission has not yet formally intervened, but conservationists fear the measures could undermine long-term species protection. All bear meat must meet legal and hygienic standards due to health risks such as parasites.