Italy's hunting law overhaul sparks environmental alarm and parliamentary fast‑track

The Italian Senate approved a controversial hunting law reform (DDL 1552) on 23 June, and the Chamber of Deputies began fast‑tracking its examination on 26 June with a second session the next day. Major environmental NGOs—including ENPA, Legambiente, WWF Italia and others—condemn the accelerated process, warning that the bill could undermine wildlife protection, biodiversity, EU directives and constitutional principles. They state, “Non è in gioco solo la natura,” and fear a “mostro giuridico” that may lead to EU infringement procedures.

Opposition politicians and wildlife advocates also criticize the bill, labeling it a “grave passo indietro per fauna e cittadini.” The draft expands hunting areas to public lands and protected zones, permits longer hunting periods (including evenings), relaxes Ispra’s advisory role, and adds new species such as wild goose and city pigeon while downgrading wolf protection. Critics argue this could endanger public safety, limit protest rights, and bypass necessary parliamentary debate and hearings.

Both sides call for a thorough, transparent legislative process to ensure compliance with European law and safeguard Italy’s fauna and citizen safety.