Italy's hunting law reform faces EU compatibility concerns

Italy's Senate will vote on a draft amendment to Law 157/1992 that regulates wildlife hunting. The proposal seeks to modernise rules that are over thirty years old, updating hunting periods, live‑capture regimes and regional planning tools. Proponents, led by Maurizio Zipponi of the National Hunting and Nature Committee, stress that the reform does not remove existing protections. Zipponi rejects claims that the bill would permit hunting on beaches, in parks or urban areas, noting that such zones remain off‑limits and that regional authorities retain control over hunting maps and limits.

The European Commission has raised questions about the draft’s compatibility with EU law, particularly the Birds and Habitat directives and the Italian Constitution’s recent biodiversity provisions. Brussels may trigger an infringement procedure, which could lead to litigation costs and possible economic sanctions for Italy if violations are confirmed. The debate therefore centres on balancing national wildlife management with EU environmental obligations while ensuring the state can meet any legal liabilities.