Italy grapples with hunting law overhaul and coastal park protection dispute

On 23 June 2026 the Italian Senate approved the DDL Caccia (Bill 1552), a proposal that would amend the 1992 wildlife protection law and substantially expand areas where hunting is permitted, extend the list of huntable species, allow longer hunting seasons and reduce the role of independent scientific assessments. Critics say the bill would reverse three decades of biodiversity safeguards, draw EU scrutiny over possible breaches of bird‑migration protections, and undermine Italy’s commitment to protect 30 % of its territory by 2030.

Separately, WWF Italy has issued a formal notice to the Ministry of the Environment demanding immediate application of the 1991 law that safeguards the area slated for the new Parco nazionale della Costa dei Trabocchi e Teatina. The request follows a recent decision by the Tar Abruzzo ordering the ministry to complete the park’s establishment within 90 days, with the possibility of appointing a commissioner if the deadline is missed. The WWF’s appeal also calls for a halt to any activities that could damage the ecosystem and has been sent to the prime minister’s office, regional authorities and local municipalities.