Sweden strengthens hunting privacy and protective‑hunt rules

Swedish authorities have introduced new legislation that takes effect on 1 July, granting confidentiality to hunters who pursue large predators such as bears, wolverines, wolves and golden eagles. Personal data of these hunters and any compensation claims for wildlife damage will no longer be publicly accessible, a measure aimed at reducing harassment by animal‑rights activists.

The reforms also simplify protective‑hunt procedures. Hunting of damage‑causing wildlife can now be approved on the basis of “damage” rather than “serious damage,” making it easier for landowners and hunters to address problem animals. Authorities will also allow hunters to track and euthanise injured wildlife on their property when necessary. Additional changes include easier access to water bodies for hunting and new provisions for hunting in Sweden’s economic zone.