FR

Madam President of the European Commission,

At the beginning of September, you expressed that the wolf was "a real threat to livestock and potentially to humans." According to reports in the German newspaper Bild, it seems that you have some personal grievances with this species, as a wolf was allegedly responsible for the death of your pony.

We share your pain and are well aware of the trauma this must be for you. However, you cannot make a personal matter into a generalization.

The wolf is not a threat to humans. In Europe, there has never been a documented case of a wolf biting a human. Likewise, you are undoubtedly aware that wolves are a protected species in Europe. Many European countries have implemented protective measures for wolves, including conservation programs aimed at preserving these iconic species.

Pastoralism is part of Europe's history, and wolves were there long before us. It is us, humans, who continue to encroach upon their territory. We must learn to coexist with them, just as citizens of all countries around the world coexist with the wildlife around them despite increasing and detrimental human activity on the environment.

There are only a few thousand wild wolves in the European Union territory. In contrast, populations of domestic herbivores have exploded over the past century. Their increasing numbers and the fact that herds are not constantly monitored by humans, along with the presence of numerous livestock guardian dogs, are the causes of attacks.

We are, of course, aware of the trauma experienced by farmers when their herds are attacked by wolves. Even though they are compensated, the psychological damage suffered by them and their animals is unfortunately irreparable. Therefore, we must go further in supporting them.

Our society and our policies, throughout Europe, must develop a new "One Health" approach that considers not only the wolves but also the farmers, their animals, and the environment. We believe that there is a need for many more humans to be constantly monitoring the herds, as well as a greater number of shepherd dogs. It is also essential to raise awareness among tourists and passersby to limit massive tourism in "at-risk" areas.

Madam President, as your mandate is set to be renewed in 2024, show Europe and Europeans that we are united, not only as peoples of different nations but also as humans who can live in harmony with the animals and the nature that surround us. Show the world that the European Union is not just a Union of humans, but a Union of Life.