Luxembourg has authorised night hunting

The Luxembourg authorities have approved a framework agreement that will legalise night hunting in the Grand Duchy. The decision was reached at the third meeting of "Bësch- a Juegddësch" — a platform for dialogue between representatives of environmental organisations, the forestry sector and hunting associations — chaired by Environment Minister Serge Wilmes. This is a "principle agreement", which means that changes to the legislation will be required for the measure to come into force.

According to Richard Frank, secretary general of the Saint-Hubert Hunting Federation (FSHCL), the hunting community has been pushing for this step for about ten years. He emphasises that night hunting is already permitted in many European countries and is seen as a tool for regulating the wild boar population. According to preliminary data, wild boar will be the main target of the new measure.

The argument put forward by supporters is the need to curb the growth of animal populations that cause damage to agriculture and young forest plantations planted as part of forest restoration programmes. The damage is to be monitored systematically. In recent years, a number of EU countries have seen an increase in the wild boar population, facilitated by mild winters and changes in the landscape; as a result, there has been a rise in conflicts between wildlife and agricultural producers. Against this backdrop, night hunting is seen as a more effective means of control, as wild boars are most active during the hours of darkness.

However, the initiative has raised concerns among some residents. One of them, who lives in Hesperange and used to be a hunter, warns of increased risks, especially near urban areas. According to him, even with warning signs in place, people continue to run and walk at night, which potentially increases the likelihood of accidents. He believes that expanding the practice could lead to an increase in incidents and holds the authors of the decision responsible for the possible consequences.

In addition to the issue of night hunting, the meeting participants agreed on the need to "democratise access" to this activity and simplify the process for new participants to join. However, as Frank emphasises, this does not mean lowering standards: the Luxembourg hunting licence, he says, remains one of the most demanding in Europe and includes rigorous theoretical and practical training, as well as strict safety requirements.