Croatian Hunting Federation disputes wildlife damage liability

The Croatian Hunting Federation (HLS) has rejected claims that hunters and hunting associations should be held solely responsible for damages caused by wildlife to agricultural land. The Federation stated that hunters are not “anyone’s ATMs” and that hunting associations are not insurance companies obligated to unconditionally compensate for property damage.

In response to proposed amendments to the Hunting Law, the HLS argues that the responsibility for damage has been automatically shifted to hunters for years, while the obligations of landowners and land users to prevent such damage are often ignored. The Federation advocates for a system where the right to compensation is tied to the clear obligations of all parties involved. They maintain that farmers should take reasonable measures to protect their crops and plantations, noting that farmers already receive various national and European subsidies, direct payments, and insurance options to mitigate risks.

The HLS emphasizes that the new legal solutions do not abolish the right to compensation for justified damage but aim to more clearly define the responsibilities of all participants. They argue that a farmer seeking compensation should demonstrate that they have timely and reasonably implemented protective measures to safeguard their property.