In collaboration with the Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe (LCIE), IBA has released a statement regarding recent bear management practices in the Slovak Republic. This statement has been formally sent to the Ministry of the Environment of the Slovak Republic and the European Commission Directorate-General for Environment. Access the full statement here.

The LCIE and IBA regard evidence-based, adaptive approaches as crucial to achieving management and conservation objectives for the benefit of both people and wildlife. 

The following calls to action have been urged for the European Commission and Slovak government to: 

• Ensure that bear management in Slovakia is in alignment with EU legislation; 
• Enable a thorough, independent assessment of recent policies, actions and outcomes in relation to bears and human–bear conflicts;  
• Prioritise use of non-lethal damage prevention measures;
• Increase public knowledge of bears and bear safety;
• Implement adaptive management structures with a scientific underpinning;
• Involve all key interest groups in population monitoring and other activities and support cooperation through inclusive stakeholder processes. 

We invite you to read the full document on IBA’s website for detailed information on our stance and proposed solutions.  

In 2005, the Council established Policy Guidance that outlines six criteria for assessing the appropriateness of International Bear Association (IBA) involvement in policy-related matters. Adhering to these criteria ensures that IBA can uphold scientific objectivity while promoting bear conservation practices that are based on the best available scientific research and ethical considerations. 

Support from IBA members is essential in maintaining this objective approach and advancing effective conservation strategies for bears on a global scale. 

Thank you for your commitment to IBA and bear conservation!