Bratislava: Slovakia approved the culling of 350 bears following a deadly bear attack on a 59-year-old man. Authorities found his body in central Slovakia on Sunday. Officials believe he was fatally mauled by a bear. Environment Minister Tomáš Taraba said bear attacks have sharply increased. He reported 1,900 bear-related incidents last year.
Rising Threats
Slovakia’s brown bear population exceeds 1,000, raising safety concerns. The government says culling is necessary to protect citizens. “People shouldn’t fear entering forests,” Prime Minister Robert Fico stated. The government declared a state of emergency in 55 of 72 counties. This allows immediate approval of bear culling without lengthy procedures.
Conservation Concerns
Environmental groups argue that Slovakia’s decision violates international wildlife agreements. They advocate non-lethal measures instead of killing bears. Activists suggest habitat management and public awareness campaigns. They claim culling is an extreme response to a growing wildlife issue. Wildlife organizations are urging authorities to reconsider the decision.
Legal Framework
The state of emergency gives the environment ministry direct control over culling permits. In 2024, authorities allowed the killing of 144 bears. The new plan significantly increases that number. A similar measure was approved in Romania last year. Some experts argue for a balanced approach to wildlife management.
Government Justification
Officials say culling is needed to prevent further human casualties. They argue bear populations are too high for safety. The government emphasizes the need to act swiftly. Prime Minister Fico insists public safety must come first. The policy aims to reduce bear-human conflicts effectively.
Global Reactions
The decision sparked international debate on wildlife conservation. Some experts warn of long-term ecological consequences. Others support population control for human safety. The issue highlights tensions between conservation and public safety. Slovakia faces pressure to justify its decision.
Alternative Solutions
Environmentalists urge authorities to use deterrents instead of culling. Some suggest relocating problem bears to less populated areas. Bear-proof trash bins and electric fencing could prevent encounters. Education campaigns may also reduce human-bear conflicts. Authorities are under pressure to consider non-lethal methods.
Future Outlook
Slovakia’s bear management strategy may face legal challenges. Conservation groups might seek intervention from international organizations. Public opinion remains divided on the culling decision. The government insists safety concerns justify the action. Further policy changes could follow depending on the outcomes.
